Senator Roland Pederson Announces New Law Establishing Oklahoma-Taiwan Trade Office

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senator Roland Pederson, R-Burlington, announced that Senate Bill 209, a measure he authored to strengthen Oklahoma’s economic ties with Taiwan, has become law.

Senate Bill 209 establishes the Taiwan Regional Trade Office under the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. The Office will serve as a key resource to promote trade and economic development between Oklahoma and Taiwan by connecting Oklahoma-based businesses with new international opportunities.

“This legislation is a major step forward for Oklahoma’s presence in the global marketplace,” said Sen. Pederson. “Taiwan is a valued trading partner, and this office will provide Oklahoma businesses with direct access to new markets, investment opportunities, and business collaborations. This Office is about creating measurable results and providing long-term value to Oklahoma’s economy. By giving our businesses access to new opportunities in Asia, we’re helping them grow and succeed right here at home.”

The measure was authored in the House by Rep. Daniel Pae, R-Lawton.

“Oklahoma and Taiwan have a decades-long friendship based on mutual respect and shared democratic values. This trade office would grow that relationship through strategic commerce. This initiative will not only support Oklahoma entrepreneurs and businesses, but also demonstrate our commitment to strengthening international ties that contribute to long-term economic growth,” Pae said.

The Taiwan Regional Trade Office will:

• Facilitate economic relationships between Oklahoma and Taiwanese businesses;
• Promote trade and investment opportunities;
• Provide business owners with information on trading prospects;
• Offer training programs to prepare Oklahoma businesses for international engagement;
• Operate a physical office in Taipei, Taiwan to ensure a consistent and visible presence abroad; and
• Support travel between Oklahoma and Taiwan for business purposes.

To ensure fiscal responsibility, Senate Bill 209 includes a provision requiring the Department of Commerce to conduct a cost-benefit analysis measuring the estimated net direct state benefits over a three-year period starting no later than January 1, 2029. If the Office fails to meet its economic benchmarks, operations will cease.

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