Fujian’s Integration with Taiwan Region Aims to Enhance Cross-Strait Development
China has announced plans to transform Fujian Province into a demonstration zone for integrated development across the Taiwan Strait. Released on September 12, the circular aims to promote peaceful reunification and deepen cross-strait integration in various sectors. This move follows the State Council’s approval of a general plan on September 6 to enhance innovative development and cooperation between Dongguan in Guangdong Province and the Taiwan region.
Historically, Fujian and Taiwan, separated by the Taiwan Strait, have shared deep cultural and economic ties. The resumption of ferry services in 2023 between the Chinese mainland and Taiwan-administered islands, after a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic, signifies a renewed commitment to strengthening these connections. Young entrepreneurs from Taiwan are increasingly looking to cities like Xiamen in Fujian to establish businesses and seek new opportunities.
Business leaders express optimism about these developments. Jason Han, vice president of Dachan Greatwall Group—a Taiwan-based company that participated in a cross-strait trade fair in Tianjin this August—highlighted the potential of the Chinese mainland market. The four-day trade show brought together 300 officials and businesspeople from Taiwan, aiming to create an investment platform and enhance economic and trade relations across the strait.
The integration efforts are expected to boost various sectors, including manufacturing, cultural tourism, agriculture, employment for young people, and entrepreneurship. Fujian Province, home to 40 million people, is the closest province to the Taiwan region both geographically and culturally.
In March 2021, Chinese President Xi Jinping called on Fujian to "be bold in exploring new paths for integrated cross-strait development." The province’s strong ties and foundation for collaboration with Taiwan are anticipated to foster steady growth in cross-strait communication and cooperation.
The State Council’s recent instructions support the establishment of internationally competitive industrial bases and advanced manufacturing clusters across the Taiwan Strait. By leveraging complementary resources, these industrial partnerships aim to enhance economic and trade relations between Fujian and Taiwan. The collaboration in sectors like petrochemicals exemplifies the potential for a comprehensive industrial chain linking both sides.
Plans include building new industrial demonstration bases in suitable locations to promote industrial cooperation. According to Fujian’s provincial government work report, the province will continue to serve as the "first home" for residents and enterprises from Taiwan pursuing development on the mainland.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
