On October 25, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the United States would not use Taiwan as a bargaining chip in ongoing trade negotiations with China. This declaration was made while Rubio was en route to Asia, ahead of a major summit between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the APEC meeting in South Korea.

Story Highlights

• Secretary of State Marco Rubio affirmed that the U.S. will not compromise its support for Taiwan for trade concessions with China.
• Rubio’s statement emphasizes America’s commitment to its allies and principles during high-level negotiations.
• China continues to seek concessions from the U.S. regarding Taiwan, but the Trump administration indicates no change in policy.
• Experts note bipartisan support for Taiwan, cautioning that any shift in U.S. policy could impact regional stability and international credibility.

Rubio’s Statement: Taiwan Not a Bargaining Chip

Secretary of State Marco Rubio explicitly stated that Taiwan would not be a factor in trade negotiations with China. This position precedes a critical Trump-Xi summit, where trade discussions are expected to be a primary focus. Rubio’s message underscores the administration’s stance on maintaining commitments to its allies.

China has historically sought to link reduced U.S. support for Taiwan with economic cooperation. Rubio’s rejection of such a trade-off signals the United States’ intent to uphold its alliances and principles, independent of economic agreements.

🚨Update: Secretary Marco Rubio says Washington won’t give up Taiwan for any deal with China.

“If anyone thinks we’d get better trade terms by walking away from Taiwan — no one’s even contemplating that,” Rubio said en route to meet Trump in Doha.

President Trump will meet… pic.twitter.com/RKSmniv27a

— US Homeland Security News (@defense_civil25) October 26, 2025

U.S.-China Trade Talks: Security Commitments Remain

During high-level trade discussions in Malaysia involving U.S. and Chinese officials, Taiwan’s security remained a prominent issue. China’s territorial claims over Taiwan and increased military activities in the region have heightened the significance of these discussions. Secretary Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, representing the Trump administration, have communicated that Taiwan’s security and the U.S. commitment to its defense are not subject to negotiation.

President Trump is expected to address the Taiwan issue directly with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the upcoming summit, with no major policy shifts anticipated. Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung has publicly acknowledged the U.S. assurances, reinforcing the alliance between the two entities.

Expert Analysis: The Importance of U.S. Stance on Taiwan

Academic and strategic experts consider Taiwan a critical issue in U.S.-China relations. Chang Wu-ueh of Tamkang University noted that while Taiwan might not be the central topic of trade talks, it is a sensitive point requiring careful management to avoid miscalculation. Analysts suggest that any perceived weakening of U.S. support could encourage China and impact global authoritarian regimes. Sustained support for Taiwan is viewed as essential for protecting an ally, upholding U.S. credibility, and deterring aggression. Bipartisan consensus on supporting Taiwan remains strong, reflecting a broad agreement that economic gains should not compromise strategic principles.

The Trump administration’s approach establishes a precedent for future U.S. foreign policy by separating economic negotiations from security commitments. This stance is intended to demonstrate that the U.S. will not yield to attempts to undermine its values or alliances.

Implications for U.S. Policy and Security

Rubio’s assurance aims to provide immediate reassurance to Taiwan, potentially reducing concerns about abandonment and contributing to regional stability during a period of intense negotiation. In the long term, maintaining a firm position on Taiwan reinforces U.S. strategic commitments to allies and demonstrates a consistent approach to international relations. This is intended to strengthen the nation’s credibility and signal that the U.S. will not compromise on its principles or security.

Watch the report: US Ambassador Promises No Change to Taiwan Ties｜TaiwanPlus News

Sources:

Rubio says commitment to Taiwan won’t change amid trade talks with China
Rubio Says US Won’t Change Taiwan Policy for China Deal – Bloomberg
US not abandoning Taiwan for China deal, says Rubio | The Straits Times
Taipei Times
Focus Taiwan (CNA)