China announced the suspension of tariff exemptions on 34 Taiwanese products, including fruits, vegetables, and marine items, set to commence on September 25. This decision was attributed to Taiwan's alleged discriminatory restrictions against Chinese products, negatively impacting cross-strait economic relations. The Taiwan Affairs Office of China's State Council expressed a desire for Taiwanese farmers and fishers to see the detrimental effects of Taiwan's pro-independence stance, under the leadership of President Lai Ching-te, whom China regards as a separatist.
In response, Taiwan criticized China's move as "economic coercion," arguing it undermines the interests of Taiwanese agricultural sectors and hinders the improvement of cross-strait relations. The Mainland Affairs Council of Taiwan highlighted the adverse impact on local farmers and fishers, suggesting that such measures would foster resentment and do not align with the interests of long-term development across the strait. This escalation comes amid increasing pressures from China, both militarily and economically, over the past five years, with the recent suspension of tariff exemptions marking a continuation of China's strategy to exert influence over Taiwan.
Sources: NHK World Japan & Business Standard