Taipei: Executive Yuan Secretary-General Kung Ming-hsin has been appointed as Taiwan's new economics minister, while Presidential Office Deputy Secretary-General Xavier Chang has been named to succeed him in his previous role.

According to Focus Taiwan, government sources confirmed these appointments, which mark significant changes within Taiwan's executive leadership.

Kung has an extensive background in economic policy, having led the National Development Council (NDC), Taiwan's top policy-making agency, from 2020 to 2024. He has also served as Cabinet Secretary-General since May 2024. Kung's appointment follows the resignation of Kuo Jyh-huei, who faced criticism for comments deemed inappropriate since taking office in May 2024. The 72-year-old Kuo, founder of Topco Scientific Co., Ltd., cited personal health reasons for stepping down after 15 months in the job. Premier Cho Jung-tai has accepted Kuo's resignation, as confirmed by Cabinet spokesperson Michelle Lee.

Kuo's departure comes amid economic challenges for Taiwan, including 20 percent tariffs imposed by the United States on most goods imported from Taiwan, as well as potential levies on semiconductor and information and communication technology (ICT) products. Kung, at 61, has held key government roles under former President Tsai Ing-wen, including deputy NDC chief and deputy economics minister, before his leadership at the NDC and as a minister without portfolio.

Xavier Chang, 44, who will succeed Kung, has experience working under two presidents. He served as Presidential Office spokesperson from 2019 to 2023 and became the deputy secretary-general of the Presidential Office in January 2023. His appointment reflects continuity and experience within Taiwan's executive branch.