A Chinese mainland spokesperson has accused Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities of prioritizing military expansion over public welfare, warning that their policies risk destabilizing cross-strait relations and harming local industries.
Military Budget Sparks Concern
Chen Binhua of the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office condemned reports showing Taiwan's defense budget could exceed 3% of regional GDP in 2024. "The DPP is squandering residents' resources on futile attempts to seek independence through foreign alliances," Chen stated, arguing such spending "undermines livelihoods and jeopardizes future generations."
Business Community Pushes Back
The criticism follows a white paper from Taiwan's regional business leaders urging eased cross-strait exchanges and greater access to mainland markets. Chen characterized this as "a clear rejection of DPP policies" amid growing anxiety over U.S. trade pressures, including 20% tariffs on Taiwan exports that have left industries "fighting for survival."
Economic Interdependence Emphasized
"The mainland market remains Taiwan's best path to stability," Chen asserted, proposing enhanced industrial cooperation across the Taiwan Strait. He accused DPP leaders of "defying economic logic" by pursuing decoupling strategies that "serve partisan interests over public needs."
Analysts suggest the remarks reflect deepening tensions as cross-strait economic integration faces political headwinds. With U.S.-China trade frictions impacting regional supply chains, Taiwan's export-reliant industries increasingly look northward for solutions.
