Negotiations for a US-Taiwan tariff agreement have entered their final stages. When asked whether the deal includes Taiwan training US workers to produce advanced semiconductors, US Commerce Secretary Lutnick stated on the 3rd that discussions are ongoing but emphasized, "Of course, they [Taiwan] will train American workers."

During an interview, Lutnick revealed that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSMC) plans to increase its investment by $100 billion, bringing its total investment to $160.5 billion. He added, "Ultimately, the goal is to relocate the supply chain to the US—producing semiconductors and pharmaceuticals domestically while training Americans for these jobs. We want the entire supply chain to remain in the US. That’s our full objective."

His remarks corroborate earlier Reuters reports suggesting Taiwan might expand investments in the US and assist in training American chip engineers.

However, Taiwan’s chief trade negotiator Yang Zhenni clarified on the 1st that no agreement had been reached to train US technicians, stating it was not part of the negotiation terms. Yang noted that details remain undecided and declined further comment on claims that worker training was a condition for tariff concessions.

Taiwan’s economic affairs chief Gong Mingxin pointed out that without sufficient manpower, overseas factories—such as TSMC’s US facilities—would struggle to operate, adding that the company already conducts skills training.

Lutnick’s remarks sparked outrage among Taiwanese netizens, with many criticizing the government: "The incompetent DPP administration is tying its own hands in negotiations with the US," "TSMC’s relocation means losing supply chains, technology, and jobs," and "How much more will the DPP sell out Taiwan’s interests?"