A Diplomatic Misstep?
Taiwan Labeled a Country in White House Tariff Speech, Angering China
The tariff policy, which increases levies on Chinese goods to 54% starting April 9, was already expected to escalate tensions between Washington and Beijing. But the Taiwan labeling mistake added fuel to the fire.
China’s Strong Reaction
China immediately urged the U.S. to reconsider both the tariffs and the geopolitical misstep. The country’s commerce ministry demanded the tariffs be canceled, calling them a threat to global economic development.
China’s ambassador to the U.S., Xie Feng, took to X (formerly Twitter) to reinforce Beijing’s stance:
“Taiwan is China’s Taiwan. We will continue to strive for peaceful reunification with the greatest sincerity, but we will never allow any room for ‘Taiwan independence’ forces.”
Why the Taiwan Label Matters
For decades, China has viewed Taiwan as a breakaway province, despite the island’s democratic government and separate economy. Although Taiwan operates as an autonomous nation, only thirteen of the 193 UN members legally recognize it.
The United States, like most other nations, maintains strong military and economic ties to Taiwan while not officially recognizing it as a nation.
Taiwan’s Response
Taiwanese officials were careful in their reaction, with the country’s office to the EU stating:
“The partnership between Taiwan and the U.S. is strong. As for the naming, there are several possible reasons, and we are not in the position to speculate.”
The White House has not responded to the controversy.
What’s Next?
With U.S.-China relations already tense due to tariffs, trade disputes, and military tensions, this labeling error could further complicate diplomacy. Whether the White House will address the Taiwan controversy remains to be seen.
Source: USA Today