Parallel Moves: North Macedonia and Bangladesh
The Taiwan announcement came alongside a new framework unveiled Thursday between the U.S. and North Macedonia. Under that reciprocal trade outline, North Macedonian goods will face a 15% tariff.
The countries agreed to address U.S. concerns about non-tariff barriers affecting priority trade areas, according to a White House statement. North Macedonia also committed to maintaining environmental protections, tackling labor issues and purchasing liquefied natural gas.
Greer described that framework as laying the groundwork for a broader reciprocal agreement aimed at deepening economic ties while reducing regulatory obstacles for American producers.
The developments follow closely on the heels of a separate deal with Bangladesh, reached just days earlier. Under that arrangement, certain Bangladeshi imports will be exempt from a 19% tariff that applies to most merchandise from the country.
A Calculated Trade Reset
Taken together, the moves reflect a recalibration of U.S. trade relationships — lowering some barriers, maintaining others, and using purchase commitments as leverage.
The US Taiwan Trade Deal, in particular, stands out for its scale and scope. By slashing nearly all Taiwanese tariffs on U.S. goods while keeping a structured tariff regime in place for Taiwanese exports, the agreement attempts to balance market access with domestic protections.
Whether it delivers the promised surge in exports and stronger supply chains will unfold over the coming years. For now, the deal signals a new chapter in a trade relationship that has grown increasingly strategic — and increasingly consequential.
