By Andi Anderson
Congressman Zach Nunn of Iowa led a congressional delegation to Taiwan to support a major trade initiative focused on expanding agricultural exports, opening new ethanol markets, and strengthening national security cooperation. The visit emphasized economic growth for Iowa farmers while reinforcing strategic international partnerships.
The delegation followed a newly negotiated reciprocal trade agreement between the United States and Taiwan reached in February 2026. The agreement is currently being debated in Taiwan’s legislature.
During the visit, Congressman Nunn received Taiwan’s Friendship Medal of Diplomacy in recognition of his leadership in strengthening economic and security ties between the two partners.
“Iowa exported more than $225 million in agricultural goods to Taiwan last year. I led this delegation to make sure Iowa farmers and producers have a seat at the table as this trade agreement moves forward,” said Rep. Nunn. “In every meeting, Taiwanese officials made clear they want to be a stronger trade partner, reducing tariffs and removing barriers on the products we grow and raise in Iowa.”
Taiwan has become one of the top markets for United States agricultural products, importing billions of dollars’ worth of farm goods annually.
The proposed agreement would reduce tariffs on major exports such as beef, dairy, and corn, while eliminating tariffs entirely on most agricultural goods. These changes are expected to improve competitiveness and market stability for American farmers.
Ethanol exports were also a key focus of the discussions. Taiwan currently produces no domestic ethanol and relies entirely on imports. The country is exploring increased fuel blending levels, which could significantly boost demand for corn‑based ethanol produced in the United States.
“If Taiwan moves to E10 and lowers trade barriers, that’s a brand‑new export market for Iowa corn‑based ethanol that doesn’t exist today,” said Rep. Nunn. “Energy security and agricultural trade reinforce each other — the more Taiwan depends on American energy and American grain, the stronger this partnership becomes for Iowa producers.”
National security cooperation was also addressed during the visit. Congressman Nunn authored multiple Taiwan‑focused provisions in the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act aimed at strengthening collaboration in advanced defense technology, intelligence sharing, and deterrence.
“A free and open Taiwan Strait is essential to global trade, and Iowa’s economy depends on keeping it that way. Strong deterrence protects both our national security and the trade relationships Iowa farmers count on,” said Rep. Nunn.
The delegation included members of Congress from several Midwestern states and emphasized the importance of international partnerships in supporting agriculture, energy security, and economic resilience.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Iowa, Government & Policy