Taiwan is exploring the possibility of a high-tech strategic partnership with the US, which is keen on boosting Taiwanese investment, the island’s chief tariff negotiator said on Thursday, providing an update on ongoing discussions with Washington.

Taiwan, home to the world’s biggest contract chipmaker TSMC , runs a large trade surplus with the United States. The island’s exports to the US are currently subject to a 20% tariff, a figure Taipei’s government is seeking to cut.

‘Taiwan Model’

Taiwan Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun, who is leading the tariff talks with Washington, told reporters in Taipei she was hopeful both sides could reach a consensus on expanding investment in the United States through a “Taiwan model”.

This would not involve relocating supply chains but rather extendin

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