Taiwan Seeks Closer Economic Links With OAS

by Mike Godfrey, Tax-News.com, Washington

07 September 2004

Taiwan is to embark on a policy of forging closer economic ties with the members of the Organisation of American States, it has emerged after President Chen Shui-bian's return from a diplomatic tour of Panama and Belize.

According to Taiwanese media reports, a source within the government’s Information Office has revealed that President Chen, with US backing, is seeking observer status for Taiwan within the OAS, a multilateral organisation which promotes democracy and trade throughout the Americas and the Caribbean.

Taiwan also hopes to expand its network of Free Trade Agreements by negotiating trade deals with OAS member states, it was reported.

Chen, who was in Panama last week for the inauguration of President Martin Torrijos, noted that Panamanian exports to Taiwan have increased five-fold since the entering into force of the FTA between the two states in January.

Under this agreement, 6,200 categories, or 71%, of Taiwanese goods are exempted from Panamanian customs duties while 4,160 categories, or just under half of Panamanian goods, are exempted from Taiwanese import tariffs.

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