1.Taiwan Ministry of Agriculture: Zero Tariff Not Premise in U.S. Trade Talks

Taiwan and the U.S. have concluded a summary meeting on reciprocal tariffs. U.S. tariffs on Taiwanese exports will drop to 15%, but U.S. agricultural imports—including pork, beef, and rice—are still under negotiation. Taiwan’s Ministry of Agriculture stressed zero tariffs were never a premise. Deputy Premier Cheng Li-chun confirmed a phase-one agreement and MOU were signed, with a full trade deal expected soon. Minister Chen Chun-chi added that negotiations prioritize food security, industry stability, and farmers’ income, and key exports like orchids and tea could regain competitiveness under the new tariffs.
 

2. Fisheries Agency Recruiting Vessel Crew, Chief Captain Salary Up to NT$126K

Taiwan's Fisheries Agency announced that applications are open until February 4 for contract positions on public fishing vessels. Eligible candidates include holders of first-class captain, chief mate, or officer licenses, as well as graduates from maritime, fisheries, engineering, or shipbuilding-related programs. The recruitment covers both training and patrol vessels, with five positions available, including chief captain, chief mate, and engineers. Salaries start at NT$95,420 for chief captains, rising to NT$126,230 for one-month offshore missions; NT$69,650 to NT$92,150 for chief mates; and NT$39,630 to NT$53,700 for engineers. Applications must be mailed by registered post with complete forms and supporting documents. For details, download the recruitment brochure: https://reurl.cc/R97zeG.Inquiries can be directed to Mr. Wu at the Fisheries Agency Human Resources Division, 07-8239620 (9:00–17:00) or chinhan0126@ms1.fa.gov.tw