Premier Mao Chi-kuo says he needs to evaluate whether to open up tourism on Taiping Island in the South China Sea.
Mao was speaking Tuesday at the legislature. His comments came a day after KMT presidential candidate Eric Chu suggested that the government turn Taiping Island into a tourist attraction.
Mao told lawmakers that while Taiping Island is not reef rock and is livable, logistic support must be taken into consideration.
“Taiping Island has water, so sustaining life there is doable. However, there are limits in regards to whether it is able to support [tourism] on a regular basis. I think we need to conduct a professional evaluation before making a decision,” said Mao.
The premier said although about 200 people had travelled to Taiping Island by boat as a group, they were there for research and supply deliveries.
Taiwan has effective administration over Taiping Island. Taiwan’s coast guard is tasked with defending the island and the Kaohsiung City Government is responsible for its administration. The island is the largest of the Spratly Islands and is also claimed by China, the Philippines and Vietnam.