China announced a series of incentives for Taiwan on Sunday, following a meeting between President Xi Jinping and Kuomintang leader Cheng Li-wun. The measures aim to demonstrate “goodwill” and include easing restrictions on tourism, allowing certain television dramas, and facilitating food sales.
The new policies will see the full resumption of flights between mainland cities and Taiwan, with individuals from Shanghai and Fujian province permitted to visit. Beijing also announced it would ease bans on Taiwanese food and TV shows, including allowing imports of aquaculture products.
This move signals a shift in approach after China cut off high-level contact with Taipei following the 2016 election. During the meeting, President Xi Jinping emphasized that China would not tolerate Taiwan’s independence.
The announced incentives represent an effort to strengthen ties with Taiwan, particularly through the island’s largest opposition party.