Taiwan Eyes Easing Restrictions on Mainland Chinese Tourists: A Step Towards Independent Travel?

Officials Discuss Potential Expansion of Tourist Visas, Signaling a Possible Shift in Cross-Strait Travel Policies.

The evolving landscape of cross-strait tourism, particularly the influx of Mainland Chinese tourists to Taiwan, is under close scrutiny. Following Taiwan's 2023 decision to resume allowing third-country nationals from China to visit, and China's subsequent resumption of travel from Fujian to Kinmen and Matsu in 2024, further policy adjustments are being considered.

Discussions are underway regarding the potential relaxation of restrictions on a second category of Mainland Chinese tourists entering Taiwan, according to the Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) on the 24th. This move suggests a possible shift towards allowing greater freedom of travel.

Earlier, the MAC Minister Chiu Tai-san highlighted concerns about potential "united front" tactics by the Chinese government, emphasizing that government-controlled tour groups could be susceptible to such manipulation. The government maintains its stance, advocating for prior negotiations between the two sides. Speaking at a regular press conference on the 24th, MAC Deputy Minister Liang Wen-chieh addressed questions from the press, including whether there have been observed instances of "united front" tactics following the resumption of travel to Kinmen and Matsu and the entry of third-country nationals. Furthermore, he was asked about the government's plans to potentially allow a second category of Mainland Chinese tourists to visit Taiwan.