Beijing, September 19, 2024 – The Europe Today: The recent decision by mainland China to cancel its zero-tariff policy on select Taiwanese products is a direct response to the Taiwan authorities’ “Taiwan independence” stance, led by Lai Ching-te, a mainland spokesperson stated on Wednesday.
The Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council announced that starting September 25, 2024, it will cease the exemption of import tariffs on 34 agricultural products from Taiwan, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood.
Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, expressed strong support for the decision. He emphasized that the mainland initially introduced the zero-tariff policy in 2005 and 2007, believing that both sides of the Taiwan Strait shared familial bonds. These measures aimed to help Taiwanese products expand in the mainland market, benefiting workers in the agriculture and fishery sectors of Taiwan.
However, since Lai Ching-te assumed leadership of the island, the Taiwan authorities have persistently advocated for “Taiwan independence” and engaged in provocative actions that have intensified cross-Strait tensions. Chen further noted that Taiwan continues to impose unilateral restrictions on more than 1,000 agricultural imports from the mainland.
“We respect, care for, and remain committed to benefiting our compatriots in Taiwan,” said Chen. He also warned that pursuing “Taiwan independence” would only harm Taiwan’s interests and urged those supporting the movement to reconsider their stance for the sake of long-term stability and cooperation.
The decision marks another chapter in the growing tensions between Taiwan and mainland China, as the geopolitical landscape in the region continues to evolve.
