A U.S. legislative panel suggested a law amendment Tuesday, November 19, that would provide Taiwan the same status as NATO Plus nations when it comes to weapons sales.

According to Taiwan News, the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission (USCC) made two suggestions regarding Taiwan in its annual report. One of the main ones was to alter the Arms Export Control Act.

The 793-page study discusses Taiwan, Hong Kong, security concerns, and commercial ties between the United States and China. The 1976 Arms Export Control Act was to be amended in the part on Taiwan in order to elevate Taiwan’s military sales status to that of NATO Plus nations like Australia, Japan, South Korea, Israel, and New Zealand.

The article states that if the amendment is passed, congressional approval would only be needed for U.S. military sales to Taiwan that surpass $25 million (NT$893 million), rather than the existing $14 million level.

The study also suggests that the U.S. Congress establish a “Taiwan Allies Fund” to aid nations that continue to have diplomatic ties with Taiwan. Up to 15% of the fund might be given to certain countries annually, but aid would be promptly cut off for any government that severes its connections with Taiwan.

Additionally, the paper emphasizes Taiwan’s continued status as a “potential flashpoint for conflict with China.” China continues to pursue annexation of Taiwan, according to the USCC, using a variety of strategies, from “information operations to influence Taiwan’s public opinion to the use of military force.”

According to the study, China’s military operations in the gray zone close to Taiwan have caused challenges, even though President Lai Ching-te’s government intends to counter China’s military threat with asymmetric defensive tactics.

According to the report’s authors, this will force Taiwan to choose between halting these initiatives and putting its defense against a possible invasion first. According to the USCC, the U.S.

assist Taiwan in thwarting China’s military operations in the gray area and provide the asymmetric warfare equipment it needs. It also points out that Taiwan has trouble quickly equipping itself because of supply delays and constraints in the American military industry.

Consequently, the USCC said Taiwan would continue to rely on U.S. deterrence as the PLA moves closer to its “2027 and mid-century modernization objectives.” The research warned that China is still developing the capability to isolate or blockade Taiwan, even in the event that an invasion is successfully repelled.