Tariffs push Taiwan orchid growers to consider US production shift

The Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce of North America held a forum this Tuesday at the Taipei International Convention Center on a new framework for Taiwan-U.S. economic and trade agreements. U.S.-based orchid business operator Chien Wei-chih said she believes moving production closer to markets may be considered under the new framework.

Chien, who is also currently vice president of the Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce in Denver, Colorado, has been investing in the U.S. agricultural sector since 2007, focusing on the orchid industry. She has collaborated with Taiwanese agricultural companies to introduce superior varieties and advanced cultivation techniques. She also participates in Taiwan-U.S. agricultural exchange and cooperation projects, promoting connections between the two sides in technology, investment, and market expansion.

During a panel discussion at the forum, Chien mentioned that the current crisis facing agriculture lies in supply chains and market security. She pointed out that when transportation costs and tariffs affect operations, it is important to consider whether the main production should be located closer to its largest market. In the case of orchids, the U.S. is Taiwan’s largest export market.