China has recently opened the door for mainland tourists from Fujian Province to travel to Matsu, Taiwan. In an interview on Monday, Transportation Ministry Acting Minister Chen Yen-po (陳彥伯) said that he is happy to welcome Chinese tourists and will continue to adhere to the principles of reciprocity, dignity, health, and order while promoting cross-strait tourism.
Through the “mini-three-links,” a provision that aims to facilitate economic development by allowing a two-way flow of people and goods between Taiwan’s Kinmen and Matsu islands and China, tourists can enter and stay for a maximum of 15 days. Due to the proximity of these islands and the Fujian Province, the exchanges strengthen the ties between the two sides, while improving the residents’ standard of living.
Regarding negotiations on Chinese tourism to Taiwan’s main island, Chen said that industries have made good preparations, and the government will review the situation on a rolling basis and continue to promote cross-strait tourism.
With former Transportation Minister Li Meng-yen’s (李孟諺) resignation raising concerns, Chen emphasized that the ministry is a team and all departments are continuing to work hard at their posts with professionalism and enthusiasm. He said that although there are slight personnel changes, services will remain uninterrupted and focus is still on maintaining a more convenient, safe, and innovative travel environment in Taiwan.