Taiwan has pushed back against a new package of 12 measures introduced by the Chinese mainland aimed at deepening cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation, highlighting continued political tensions between Taipei and Beijing.
The measures, announced by the southeastern Chinese city of Xiamen, include initiatives to expand trade in Taiwanese agricultural and fishery products, improve services for Taiwanese visitors, promote cultural exchanges and strengthen cooperation in the audiovisual and digital-content sectors. Beijing says the policies are designed to encourage closer economic, cultural and people-to-people ties across the Taiwan Strait.
Taiwan Raises Concerns
Taipei has repeatedly expressed concern that Beijing’s economic and social incentives are intended not only to encourage exchanges but also to advance China’s broader political agenda toward Taiwan.
Taiwan’s government maintains that cross-Strait engagement should take place on an equal basis and through legitimate government-to-government channels. Earlier this year, Taipei similarly rejected Beijing’s package of incentives announced after a visit to China by Kuomintang leader Cheng Li-wun, saying such initiatives should not bypass Taiwan’s democratically elected government.
Tensions Remain High
The latest dispute comes as military and political tensions remain elevated. Taiwan recently completed its annual Han Kuang military exercises, which included simulations of a Chinese blockade, attacks on critical infrastructure and disruptions to communications. Beijing criticized the drills as provocative, while President Lai Ching-te has defended Taiwan’s efforts to strengthen its self-defence and societal resilience.
Lai has also proposed a record defence budget for 2027 exceeding NT$1.12 trillion ($31.4 billion), arguing that stronger defence capabilities are an investment in peace amid growing pressure from China.
Wider Implications
China regards Taiwan as part of its territory and has repeatedly called for eventual reunification, while Taiwan’s government rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims and insists that the island’s future should be determined by its people.
The competing approaches mean that even measures focused on trade, tourism and cultural cooperation are likely to remain politically sensitive. The latest developments underscore the delicate balance between expanding practical exchanges and managing the wider security dispute across the Taiwan Strait.
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