The head of one of Taiwan’s top business groups on Monday urged both China and Taipei to keep politics out of efforts to resume normal trade and tourism exchanges, following Beijing’s latest incentives for the island.

Paul Hsu, chairman of the General Chamber of Commerce of Taiwan, said any reopening should be stable, systematic and sustainable.

“As soon as there is an opening up, it should be as much as possible be systematic and normalised to maintain the long-term stability of business and trade exchanges,” Hsu told reporters in Taipei.

China’s New Incentives

China, which claims Taiwan as its own territory, recently unveiled measures including easing tourism restrictions and food import curbs. However, Beijing said such steps must be based on opposition to “Taiwan independence.”

China has also intensified political and economic pressure on the island in recent years, targeting sectors such as tourism and food imports, while conducting regular military drills.

Beijing refuses to engage with Lai Ching-te, President of Taiwan, labelling him a “separatist.”

Push for Equal Treatment

Hsu, speaking alongside representatives from the tourism and food industries, urged China to ensure consistency in trade ties rather than sudden disruptions.

He also called for equal treatment across Taiwan, regardless of which political party governs specific regions, noting that southern Taiwan is a stronghold of Lai’s Democratic Progressive Party.

Industry Voice and Political Context

Hsu emphasised that his group, representing more than a million companies, was speaking as a non-partisan voice for industry.

“As long as you put forth good policies, we will offer support. But if you stand against us, I can’t support you,” he said, highlighting the role of businesses in Taiwan’s democratic system.

The group also urged Taiwan’s government to “proactively face” China’s offers of economic opening.

Government Response and Political Tensions

Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council said it would address the “reasonable demands” of industry but warned against businesses becoming tools “manipulated and exploited” by Beijing.

China’s latest measures followed a visit to Beijing by Taiwan opposition leader Cheng Li-wun, who described her trip as a “journey of peace” and met Xi Jinping.

Elections Ahead

The developments come as Taiwan prepares for key local elections in November, with the next presidential election scheduled for early 2028.

(with inputs from Reuters)