CPPCC member Xu Kewei highlighted the growing trend of Taiwan residents pursuing education and careers in the Chinese mainland during a group interview at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing this week. Xu, also a Standing Committee member of the Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League, emphasized that cross-strait exchanges among youth are key to fostering shared prosperity.
"Peace and development remain the common aspirations of people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait," Xu stated on March 11, 2026. She noted that young people from the Taiwan region have increasingly thrived in mainland industries ranging from food and beverage innovation to AI-driven manufacturing, with some creating successful chain brands blending cultural elements from both sides.
Xu cited examples of cross-strait collaboration, including entrepreneurs merging Fujian and Taiwan flavors in milk tea businesses, tech professionals revolutionizing traditional industries through artificial intelligence, and artists preserving Gezaixi opera—a shared intangible cultural heritage. These initiatives, she argued, demonstrate the "bright future" possible through sustained people-to-people engagement.
The remarks come as educational and professional opportunities continue attracting Taiwan residents to the mainland this year, with many leveraging cultural familiarity and technological synergies. Analysts suggest this trend could further integrate cross-strait economic and social networks in 2026.
