U.S.–TAIWAN TRADE AGREEMENT DELIVERS MAJOR MARKET ACCESS GAINS FOR U.S. POTATOES

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has announced the signing of the U.S.–Taiwan Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART)—a significant step forward for U.S. agriculture that delivers meaningful new market access for the potato industry.

Under the agreement, Taiwan has committed to eliminate tariffs on all major U.S. potato product categories upon implementation. This includes frozen fries, dehydrated potatoes, fresh potatoes, and processed products—key export lines for Washington State growers and processors.

Tariffs scheduled for elimination include:

The immediate removal of these tariffs is expected to enhance the competitiveness of U.S. potatoes in Taiwan’s market and support expanded demand for both processed and fresh product exports.

Additional Wins on Crop Protection Standards

Beyond tariffs, the agreement includes important provisions related to Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs):

• Taiwan will accept U.S. MRL standards—or defer to Codex international standards—where Taiwan standards are not established.
• In the event of an MRL violation, enforcement actions will target the specific supplier responsible rather than suspending access for the entire commodity sector.

These commitments provide greater regulatory certainty and reduce the risk of broad trade disruptions for U.S. exporters.

Industry Engagement Key to Outcome

These outcomes reflect sustained engagement by U.S. potato industry leaders—including the National Potato Council (NPC), processors, and allied partners—who worked to ensure potato priorities were included in the final agreement.

The agreement now moves to formal sign-off and implementation by both governments. Industry groups will continue monitoring the process and provide updates as tariff elimination and market access provisions take effect.

Bottom line: The U.S.–Taiwan ART represents a strong trade win—opening the door for expanded export opportunities and improved long-term market stability for Washington’s potato sector.