TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — US Representative Pat Harrigan on Tuesday introduced legislation to increase liquefied natural gas exports to Taiwan and safeguard supply routes as the war in the Middle East disrupts global energy markets.

Harrigan unveiled the Taiwan Energy Security and Anti-Embargo Act, calling the nation’s heavy reliance on imported energy a “critical weak point” in the Indo-Pacific balance of power, per CNA. He said rising tensions and threats to key shipping routes show that energy security is tied to national security.

Harrigan said disruptions to sea lanes have unsettled energy markets and could threaten Taiwan’s supply chain. The bill aims to ensure Taiwan is not exposed to supply shocks, geopolitical instability, or coercion from China.

The legislation would prioritize US LNG exports to Taiwan. It would also encourage diversifying supply sources to reduce the risk of hostile actors using energy as leverage.

The bill also promotes US–Taiwan cooperation in advanced nuclear technology, including small modular reactors. Another provision calls for closer cooperation to protect Taiwan’s energy grid and storage systems from cyberattacks, sabotage, and other asymmetric threats.

The legislation would also expand the US Maritime Administration’s authority to insure vessels carrying critical supplies to Taiwan. The measure would apply if commercial insurers withdraw coverage due to foreign military threats.

Harrigan commented that the bill aims to strengthen deterrence and support democratic partners in the Indo-Pacific. He said aligning US energy exports with security policy could help ensure Taiwan’s electricity supply remains stable.

Taiwan’s government says short-term supplies remain secure. Minister of Economic Affairs Kung Ming-hsin (龔明鑫) said 20 of the 22 LNG carriers needed for March and April have been secured, with negotiations ongoing for the remaining shipments.