China's Foreign Ministry has reiterated that adherence to the one-China principle remains the fundamental requirement for the Taiwan region's participation in World Trade Organization (WTO) activities. Spokesperson Lin Jian emphasized this position during a March 24, 2026 press briefing, responding to questions about recent developments at a WTO ministerial meeting in Cameroon.
The statement follows Taiwan authorities' decision to withdraw from the high-level WTO meeting after being listed as a Chinese province in official documentation. Lin characterized the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities' actions as "political manipulation" aimed at advancing separatist agendas, asserting that such attempts "will only fail and disgrace themselves."
"There is only one China in the world, and Taiwan has been an inseparable part of Chinese territory since ancient times," Lin stated, reaffirming Beijing's consistent stance on cross-strait matters. The spokesperson emphasized China's support for Cameroon's hosting of the first WTO ministerial meeting in Africa since 2016, noting the event's importance amid growing challenges to multilateral trade systems.
Analysts suggest this development underscores Beijing's determination to prevent any international recognition of Taiwan as a separate political entity, particularly within crucial global governance frameworks. The WTO ministerial meeting in Yaoundé comes as member states grapple with rising protectionism and supply chain realignments affecting Asian export economies.
