MAC Press Release No. 041

Date: July 8, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) stated today (July 8) that extreme weather and typhoons have recently triggered consecutive severe disasters in Guangxi, Hubei, and Gansu in mainland China. According to statistics compiled as of yesterday (July 7), the disasters have unfortunately resulted in over 20 casualties and affected nearly 400,000 residents. Our government extends its sincere condolences and concern to the relevant authorities in mainland China. It is our sincere wish that the deceased rest in peace, the injured recover swiftly, and that the affected areas can overcome the current difficulties, complete post-disaster recovery as soon as possible, and comprehensively minimize disaster losses.

　　The MAC has requested the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) to ascertain the safety of Taiwanese citizens in the affected regions through available channels. Preliminary findings indicate that no Taiwanese citizens have been affected so far; however, the government will continue to closely monitor the situation. Furthermore, according to the “Online Registration System for Taiwanese Citizens Visiting Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao,” there are currently 39, 74, and 36 Taiwanese citizens in Guangxi, Hubei, and Gansu, respectively. The government will continue to pay close attention to the latest information and circumstances to provide timely updates for our citizens. Taiwanese citizens in the affected areas are also urged to remain vigilant and prioritize their personal safety. (SEF Emergency Service Hotline: +886-2-2533-9995)

Press Contact: Ms. Chen

Tel: +886-2-2397-5589 ext. 7010

• MAC Press Release No.041.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.041 (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 039

Date: July 4, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) stated today (July 4) that the Taiwan government solemnly rejects the statement issued today by the China Coast Guard claiming that “the CCG task group led by CCGS Xiushan replaced the task group led by CCGS Daishan to continue law-enforcement patrols in the waters east of Taiwan Island in accordance with the law.”Taiwan government also strongly condemns the China Coast Guard’s actions that undermine the status quo and regional stability.

　　The MAC explained that the CCP has neither sovereignty nor any related rights in the waters east of Taiwan. It has no jurisdiction over these waters, and none of its official vessels have any law enforcement authority there. All the so-called “law enforcement patrols” conducted by the CCP in these waters are, in essence, unlawful attempts to expand its jurisdiction,which violatesthe international law and undermines regional stability. The MAC emphasized that unlawful acts remain unlawful no matter how many times they are repeated, and such actions will never gain international recognition.

　　The MAC further stated that, in the face of the CCP’sactions that increase regional risks, the Coast Guard Administration and relevant government agencies will continue to take concrete actions to firmly safeguard national sovereignty and ensureTaiwan’s maritime security. The public can rest assured. The Taiwan government will also continue to strengthen cooperation with democratic partners around the world to jointly safeguard freedom of navigation and the security of sea lanes in these waters, while resolutely countering any egregious acts aimed at altering the international order through the use of force or coercion.

Press Contact: Ms. Chan

Phone: +886 9 63 604 579

• MAC Release Press No.039.pdf
• MAC Release Press NO.039 (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 038

July 2, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) today (July 2) solemnly refuted a “China Times” editorial titled “The MAC’s Misguided Role: A Roadblock to Cross-Strait Exchanges,” which deliberately smeared the government’s necessary efforts to safeguard national sovereignty and protect the safety of the people of Taiwan. The MAC’s response is as follows:

I. The MAC serves as the government’s “gatekeeper” for national security. It is the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), by erecting political barriers to obstruct cross-Strait exchanges that is the true “roadblock.” The MAC has consistently promoted cross-Strait exchanges on the basis of parity and dignity, and without political preconditions. However, the CCP has, over recent years, continued to intensify its pressure against Taiwan, using every available means to alter the status quo across the Taiwan Strait. It attempts to eliminate the Republic of China (ROC) and undermine Taiwan’s free and democratic way of life. The government’s cross-Strait policies and related measures are necessary responses to the CCP’s actions to safeguard national sovereignty, protect freedom and democracy, and maintain the peaceful and stable status quo. The CCP has not only disguised its united-front agenda through various forms of exchanges, but has also erected numerous roadblocks in the form of political preconditions. It is the Beijing authorities that have become the true roadblock to healthy and orderly cross-Strait exchanges.

II. It has been over six years since the CCP refused the resumption of mainland Chinese students pursuing degree programs in Taiwan. Our government supports healthy and orderly educational and cultural exchanges across the Taiwan Strait. At present, mainland Chinese professionals continue to visit Taiwan to participate in sporting, academic, artistic, and cultural activities, while the number of mainland Chinese students coming to Taiwan for short term study continues to increase steadily. By contrast, since April 2020, the mainland Chinese side has unilaterally suspended mainland Chinese students from pursuing degree programs in Taiwan and has yet to lift the restriction after more than six years. Although Taiwan’s Ministry of Education has continuously sought to communicate through the established cross-Strait student recruitment mechanism, the mainland Chinese side has provided no positive response. This clearly demonstrates that the obstacle to cross-Strait educational and cultural exchanges has never been placed by Taiwan, but by the mainland Chinese side.

III. The CCP has turned Taiwan’s agricultural and fishery exports into a political weapon. Recently, the CCP has once again attempted to “weaponize” trade in Taiwan’s agricultural products by “using agriculture as leverage to exert political pressure,” whereby the government has responded by consistently reminding businesses and producers not to rely on the CCP’s so-called “goodwill.” Historical experience has also proven that every so-called act of “goodwill” from the CCP serves political objectives and carries significant risks and uncertainties, and can be withdrawn at any time. The government has a responsibility to ensure that Taiwan’s farmers do not fall into the CCP’s “lure-trap-kill” strategy, and it will continue assisting farmers in expanding into diversified and stable markets while safeguarding their rights and interests.

IV. The government is actively promoting the orderly opening of cross-Strait air transportation and tourism. Taiwan has already opened 28 cross-Strait destinations (including 15 scheduled service destinations and 13 charter flight destinations), covering virtually all popular destinations and destinations expected to see regular demand, with existing routes and transport capacity already sufficient to meet current needs. The government will continue conducting regular reviews and make timely adjustments in light of developments in cross-Strait interactions and actual demand. Regarding the resumption of tourism by mainland Chinese visitors, past experience has shown that such tourism has created numerous market distortions and undermined travel quality. The “closed-loop” monopoly operating model prevented local tourism operators from realizing meaningful benefits, while many Taiwanese citizens expressed concerns over the deterioration of tourism quality and disruptions to their living environment. Given the importance the government attaches to the travel experience of the Taiwanese people and the rights and interests of local tourism operators, the two sides should engage in institutionalized consultations through the “two associations for tourism” to ensure orderly development in cross-Strait tourism.

V. The government safeguards the lawful rights and interests of mainland Chinese spouses in accordance with the law. The government permits mainland Chinese citizens to enter, stay, reside, and eventually settle in Taiwan on the premise that doing so does not endanger Taiwan’s social order or national security. Individuals in Taiwan who violate the law will be dealt with in accordance with the law. Pursuant to Article 21 of the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area (the Cross-Strait Act), former mainland Chinese citizens must have established household registration in Taiwan for the prescribed statutory period before becoming eligible to run for elected public office. As long as they meet the legal qualifications for candidacy, their opportunities to participate in politics are no different from those of other citizens. The government reiterates that mainland Chinese spouses are an integral part of Taiwan’s family, and that it will continue to uphold the principles of care, support, and assistance, while reviewing relevant laws and measures as appropriate, so that every cross-Strait family can live and work in peace and prosperity in Taiwan.

VI. The government has an obligation to inform the public of potential risks, and the international community has likewise issued warnings. Certain media outlets should not deliberately smear the government’s efforts the facts or reverse cause and effect. Over the past few years, incidents involving Taiwanese citizens being harassed or subjected to restrictions on their personal freedom while in mainland China, Hong Kong, or Macao have become increasingly frequent. At the same time, the CCP continues to exploit cross-Strait exchanges to conduct united front operations against Taiwan, carry out transnational repression, and expand its long-arm jurisdiction. These developments have prompted warnings from the international community and are widely recognized facts. Through its social media platforms, the MAC has exposed the CCP’s compound cognitive warfare, united-front infiltration, and the risks associated with traveling to mainland China, while providing transparent and accurate policy information to build public trust, strengthen domestic consensus, fulfill the government’s responsibility, and fully safeguard the rights and interests of the Taiwanese people. It is regrettable that the editorial deliberately portrays the government’s lawful administration, good faith reminders of potential risks, and necessary measures to maintain healthy and orderly cross-Strait exchanges as “obstructing exchanges” and “acting against the interests of the people.” Such claims completely disregard the facts and reverse cause and effect.

VII. The government will continue to prevent “ostensible exchanges that are in reality united-front operations” and will resolutely safeguard national sovereignty and security. The MAC handles cross-Strait affairs in accordance with the Constitution of the ROC and the Cross-Strait Act. Faced with the CCP’s united front infiltration, efforts to divide Taiwan, ambition to annex Taiwan, and coercive actions, were the government to ignore the risks to national sovereignty and security and fail to take necessary actions, it would truly be abandoning its proper role and failing the people of Taiwan. Going forward, the government will continue to maintain orderly cross-Strait exchanges in accordance with evolving circumstances while steadfastly safeguarding national sovereignty and security.

Press Contact: Ms. Chan

Phone: +886 2 23975589 ext. 7031

• MAC Press Release No.038.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.038 (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 037

Date: July 2, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) stated that on July 1, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) officially implemented the “Law of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress” (hereinafter the “Promotion Law”) imposing on all people of Taiwan a legal obligation to accept “forced unification.” The law is in substance a “unification law” packaged under the guise of “ethnic unity.” The government will strengthen public literacy and training for civil servants, build a society-wide consensus, and in accordance with the President’s instructions, take action across the three dimensions of “prevention, protection, and response.” It will also join forces with friends and allies around the world to counter CCP threats and transnational repression and safeguard the rights and interests of Taiwanese citizens.

　　The MAC explained that the Promotion Law marks a new stage in the CCP’s legal warfare against Taiwan, shifting from “opposing Taiwan independence” to “forcibly promoting unification.” Through linking “national unification” with “ethnic unity” and using the concept of ethnic unity to lay the groundwork, the CCP’s ultimate objective is, in substance, to achieve unification. The law not only compels the “fostering of a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation,” meaning that even passive noncooperation with efforts to promote unification during future cross-Strait exchanges could lead to CCP sanctions for “undermining ethnic unity,” but also applies long-arm jurisdiction to bring the entire world within the law’s reach. The CCP may even prosecute conduct occurring outside its borders. This is an malicious form of transnational repression that uses intimidation and threats to force people around the world into self-censorship. We will not accept this.

　　The MAC emphasized that the Promotion Law unilaterally imposes on the people of Taiwan legal obligations to “safeguard ethnic unity” and promote unification. At the same time, the CCP will make more active use of the Promotion Law in cross-Strait exchanges across fields such as economic and trade affairs, religion, culture, education, and sports, while incorporating these exchanges into its efforts to “promote unification through law,” thereby undermining the environment for “healthy and orderly” cross-Strait exchanges. The Promotion Law once again subjects Taiwan and all of its people to the jurisdiction of the CCP’s domestic laws, posing a threat to Taiwanese citizens and to Taiwan’s sovereignty and dignity. We strongly condemn this.

　　The MAC pointed out that, in response to the CCP’s three tactics of “promoting unification through law,” “forced unification,” and “transnational repression” to coerce Taiwanese citizens into accepting its political propositions, the government will strengthen public literacy and education and training for civil servants, build a nationwide consensus, enhance administrative review, and safeguard “healthy and orderly” cross-Strait exchanges. In addition, the Executive Yuan has established an interagency platform to pool the capabilities of government agencies in protecting Taiwanese citizens, develop prevention and response measures, improve assistance and protection mechanisms, and establish cooperation mechanisms with friends and allies to oppose CCP transnational repression, thereby comprehensively safeguarding the safety of Taiwanese citizens.

　　The MAC concluded by reiterating that the Republic of China (ROC) is a sovereign and independent state, and that Taiwan’s identity and standing must not be infringed upon. The people of Taiwan reject the CCP’s attempt to use the Promotion Law to impose forced cross-Strait unification. The government will continue advancing all relevant measures and calls on the people of Taiwan to clearly recognize that the CCP’s ultimate objective is to eliminate the ROC and deny the government’s jurisdiction over Taiwan. All citizens should work together to defend national sovereignty and Taiwan’s free and democratic environment, as well as reject exchange activities and united front operations conducted by the CCP with political intent.

Press Contact: Ms. Chan

Phone: +886 2 23975589 ext. 7031

• MAC Press Release No.037.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.037 (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 036

July 1, 2026

　　The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) began implementing its Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law today (July 1). To help the public understand and remain alert to risks posed by the CCP’s laws and regulations, Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Deputy Minister Liang Wen-chieh attended a symposium today titled “Forced Unification? Transnational Repression? The CCP’s ‘Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law’: Implications for Taiwan and Responses.” Deputy Minister Liang pointed out that the law marks a qualitative shift in the CCP’s legal warfare against Taiwan, moving from its previous focus on “opposing Taiwan independence” to the “coercive promotion of unification.” By leveraging ambiguous provisions to impose legal obligations, the malign legislation serves as a tool for the CCP to perpetrate out transnational repression against Taiwan.

　　Deputy Minister Liang stated that the CCP has long weaponized various laws to pressure and detain Taiwanese people. With or without this law, Taiwanese citizens already face the highest level of risk when traveling to mainland China. The enactment of this law merely gives the CCP another legal pretext to fabricate charges and expand political persecution. A close reading of the law reveals that it is riddled with extremely ambiguous legal concepts and provisions subject to arbitrary and subjective interpretation. This reflects the consistent nature and defining feature of the CCP’s legal system.

　　Deputy Minister Liang pointed out that the CCP often deliberately embeds large numbers of ambiguous legal concepts in its laws. The CCP leverages these loosely defined terms not to uphold the rule of law, but to project political coercion and intimidation. Any speech or action inconsistent with the CCP’s official ideology may be criminalized arbitrarily. This leads to the gravest consequence: triggering a chilling effect that forces people into endless self-censorship.

　　Deputy Minister Liang emphasized that following the implementation of the Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law, the CCP now commands a more extensive and tightly woven arsenal of legal weapons, which it can deploy at any time by selectively invoking different provisions to serve its political needs. He also noted that the law has already triggered deep concern in the international community, as it is clear that the CCP will weaponize this law to further suppress human rights in Xinjiang and Tibet, and to broaden its threats against international voices supportive of Taiwan.

　　Deputy Minister Liang explained that the Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law is, in essence, the CCP’s latest malign legislation to perpetrate transnational repression and long-arm jurisdiction. As the CCP   extends its reach overseas and attempts to export authoritarian fear through legal warfare, the government will not tolerate such actions, and will never leave Taiwanese citizens to face these risks alone.

　　The symposium brought together experts and scholars, including Professor Shih-ping Fan, Associate Research Fellow Yu-jie Chen, Judge Kai-chieh Hsu, and Professor Se-chih Wu. Participating experts analyzed the law’s political implications and the risks of extraterritorial accountability.

Press Contact: Mr. Wu

Phone: +886 2 23975589 ext. 7003

• MAC Press Release No.036.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.036 (Chinese).pdf

News Reference Material

June 29, 2026

　　The “Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA)”, signed on June 29, 2010, has now been in effect for sixteen years. In recent years, however, the mainland Chinese side, driven by political motives, has used its trade barrier investigation to exert economic and trade pressure and coercion against Taiwan. These include its unilaterally determination on December 15, 2023, that Taiwan had created trade barriers. Subsequently, Beijing announcements on December 21, 2023, and May 31, 2024, the suspension of preferential tariff treatment under the ECFA for a total of 146 product items. Such actions clearly demonstrate that the mainland Chinese side is using cross-Strait economic and trade measures as political bargaining chips and as tools of economic pressure and trade weaponization, in an attempt to coerce Taiwan into accepting its political propositions. The arbitrary suspension of agreed trade preferences made by the mainland Chinese side has seriously harmed the interests of businesses and people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.

　　According to statistics, Taiwan’s export to mainland under the ECFA Early Harvest Products fell to US$13.1 billion in 2025. Their share of Taiwan’s total exports to mainland China also dropped from 26.3% in 2016 to 13.1% in 2025, marking a new low since the ECFA took effect. The share of Taiwan’s exports destined for mainland China, including Hong Kong, has also fallen year by year, from 43.9% in 2020 to 26.6% in 2025. Meanwhile, Taiwanese investment in mainland China as a share of Taiwan’s total outbound investment has declined from a peak of 83.8% in 2010 to 3.8% in 2025 and just 0.9% during the first five months of 2026. These trends show that, in recent years, cross-Strait economic and trade relations have undergone structural changes amid shifts in the international geopolitical landscape, developments in US-China strategic competition, mainland China’s economic downturn and deteriorating investment environment, and the CCP’s economic coercion against Taiwan.

　　Taiwan’s economy grew by more than 8% in 2025, while GDP per capita GDP reached US$39,000, a new high in recent years. This demonstrates that, despite rapid changes in the international political and economic landscape and the restructuring of global supply chains, Taiwan’s economy continues to exhibit robust growth momentum. Guided by its economic and trade strategies of “Taiwan first” and “rooted in Taiwan while expanding globally,” the government will continue to promote the Action Plan for Welcoming Overseas Taiwanese Businesses to Return to Invest in Taiwan, strengthen diversified global deployment, and actively advance bilateral and regional economic and trade cooperation. These efforts are aimed at strengthening the security, resilience, and competitiveness of Taiwan’s industries and economic and trade development, while reducing economic and trade dependence on mainland China market and mitigating associated political and economic risks.

• Sixteen Years After the Signing of the ECFA, Cross-Strait Economic and Trade Relations Have Undergone Structural Changes; Taiwan’s Ongoing Efforts to Strengthen Economic and Trade Security, Resilience, and Competitiveness.pdf
• Sixteen Years After the Signing of the ECFA, Cross-Strait Economic and Trade Relations Have Undergone Structural Changes; Taiwan’s Ongoing Efforts to Strengthen Economic and Trade Security, Resilience, and Competitive.pdf

News Reference Material

June 25, 2026

　　Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung attended the Global Cooperation and Training Framework (GCTF) International Workshop on “Building Resilient Democracies: Responding to Transnational Repression” on June 24. The event was co-hosted by the Ministry of Justice and the Canadian Trade Office in Taipei, and co-organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the American Institute in Taiwan, the Australian Office, the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association, and the British Office Taipei. President Lai Ching-te also delivered remarks at the opening ceremony.

　　Deputy Minister Shen stated in his remarks, that the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) transnational repression against Taiwan has grown increasingly severe, and that they seek to coerce Taiwanese society into accepting its political propositions. This trend indicates that the CCP’s transnational repression is becoming increasingly normalized, institutionalized, and codified into law. Such actions will not improve cross-Strait relations, instead, they will further erode the foundation of mutual trust for people-to-people cross-Strait exchanges.

　　Deputy Minister Shen pointed out that transnational repression is not only a national security issue, but also a human rights issue. According to MAC data, the CCP has carried out more than 110 cases of transnational repression against Taiwan. The targets span across private enterprises, civil society think tanks and organizations, individuals, public representatives, and government agencies. Among those targeted by the CCP is the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, chaired by Legislative Yuan President Han Kuo-yu. The CCP’s transnational repression against Taiwan has become a primary obstacle to normal people-to-people cross-Strait exchanges.

　　Deputy Minister Shen further emphasized that the gathering of scholars, experts, and government representatives from a broad range of countries to discuss transnational repression demonstrates that this issue is not unique to Taiwan, but is also affecting many democratic countries around the world. It has become a serious threat to the global advancement of freedom and democracy. In the face of the CCP’s malicious transnational repression against Taiwan, the government has a responsibility to expose its tactics, hold local collaborators strictly accountable, and deepen international cooperation to mitigate the harm that transnational repression inflicted on democratic societies.

　　Deputy Minister Shen concluded by calling on the CCP to stop all forms of transnational repression against Taiwan. He stated that a genuine demonstration of goodwill would be to allow cross-Strait relations to return to a positive cycle and to implement healthy and orderly exchanges that advances the well-being of people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan will also continue to deepen cooperation with democracies around the world to safeguard the development of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law in Taiwan.

• MAC Condemns CCP’s Transnational Repression Against Taiwan for Undermining Normal Cross-Strait Exchanges, Calling on Global Democracies to Unite Against Authoritarian Expansion and Threats.pdf
• MAC Condemns CCP’s Transnational Repression Against Taiwan for Undermining Normal Cross-Strait Exchanges, Calling on Global Democracies to Unite Against Authoritarian Expansion and Threats (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 035

June 24, 2026

　　The United Daily News (UDN) published an editorial today (June 24) titled “Who Needs the Taiwan Garrison Command When We Have a MAC Like This?” In response, the Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) firmly clarifies as follows:

I. In response to the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) intensified united front efforts targeting Taiwan, the government has prohibited local public officials from participating in the Straits Forum and is handling reported violations in accordance with the law. Media accusations that the government is engaging in “political persecution” are a complete distortion of the facts.The government supports healthy and orderly cross-Strait exchanges. The Straits Forum is a platform for the CCP’s united front operations against Taiwan, a characterization already established as early as former President Ma Ying-jeou’s administration, when corresponding regulatory measures were adopted. In light of the CCP’s intensified efforts in recent years to infiltrate and divide Taiwanese society through united front tactics, the government has further strengthened relevant restrictions through policy directives, including prohibiting local government officials from participating in the Straits Forum and its related activities. Upon receiving a report alleging that Taitung County Magistrate April (Ching-ling) Rao had participated in the Straits Forum by delivering a prerecorded video address, the Ministry of the Interior, as the competent authority, initiated an inquiry in accordance with the law. This is standard procedure in any democratic country governed by the rule of law and by no means constitutes “political persecution.” The MAC strongly condemns the editorial for disregarding changes in cross-Strait developments in recent years, reversing cause and effect, and aligning itself with the CCP. It maliciously mischaracterizes the government’s lawful and dutiful administrative inquiry as an “abuse of power to coerce,” failing to provide a fair and objective assessment.

II. The government has a responsibility to protect Taiwan’s farmers and fishermen from falling into the CCP’s “lure-trap-kill” strategy. Purchase and sales agreements premised on political preconditions are economic and trade weapons used to coerce Taiwan into submission.Protecting Taiwan’s agricultural and fisheries sectors from falling victim to the CCP’s “lure-trap-kill” strategy of political coercion remains the government’s firm position. In the “ten policy measures” announced by the CCP on April 12, Beijing explicitly linked imports of Taiwanese agricultural products to adherence to the “1992 Consensus” and opposition to “Taiwan independence,” underscoring that all of its so-called “policy benefits” come with specific political conditions. Today, the precondition is acceptance of the “1992 Consensus”; in the future, Beijing may press even further by requiring a commitment to “promoting unification” as a condition for doing business with mainland China. To support the development of Taiwan’s agricultural and fisheries sectors, the government has consistently helped Taiwan’s agricultural and fishery products expand into diversified international markets rather than become overly dependent on a single market. The government does not wish to see the livelihoods of Taiwan’s farmers and fishermen fall at the mercy of Beijing, or be used by the mainland Chinese side as bargaining chips for political manipulation and economic and trade coercion. By portraying the CCP’s “sugar-coated poison” as a way out for Taiwan’s agricultural and fisheries sectors, the editorial is effectively prescribing a remedy no different from drinking poison to quench thirst.

III. Some media outlets have deliberately distorted the government’s lawful exercise of administrative authority in an attempt to manufacture confrontation between the government and the public.Claims by certain media outlets that the government is using administrative authority to carry out judicial and political coercion distort the very meaning of the government’s lawful fulfillment of its duties and are wholly inconsistent with the facts. The government has repeatedly reminded the public that participation in the “Straits Forum” and related activities must comply with laws and regulations governing cross-Strait exchanges. In accordance with applicable laws and regulations, relevant ministries and agencies also conduct inquiries into cooperative activities that may affect the orderly conduct of cross-Strait exchanges or raise concerns over united front infiltration. Such inquiries constitute the government’s lawful exercise of administrative authority and are an essential part of fulfilling its responsibilities. As a country governed by the rule of law, the government will strictly comply with the Administrative Procedure Act and other applicable laws, and will thoroughly examine all evidence, whether favorable or unfavorable to the parties concerned. The editorial’s attempt to portray the government’s lawful exercise of administrative authority as coercion is a malicious act that deliberately stokes confrontation between the government and the public and undermines the exercise of public authority.

IV. All sectors of society must not overlook the objective reality that the CCP has intensified its united front infiltration against Taiwan in recent years, nor its continued intent to annex Taiwan.In recent years, the CCP has exploited Taiwan’s free and open democratic system and media environment by using large-scale cross-Strait exchange activities to leverage political means to advance unification under the pretext of economic, trade, cultural engagement, while intensifying united front infiltration and efforts to divide Taiwanese society. The media should uphold professional integrity by providing fair and objective analysis, rather than turning a blind eye to the political risks embedded in the CCP’s so-called “Taiwan-benefiting measures,” glossing over actions of the Beijing authorities, or helping them leverage economic means to achieve their political objectives and ultimately annexation of Taiwan. The government maintains that cross-Strait economic and trade exchanges should not and cannot come at the expense of national sovereignty and security. While exercising its administrative authority in accordance with the law, the government will continue to guard against the CCP’s united front infiltration and divisive campaigns, and remain steadfast in safeguarding the orderly conduct of cross-Strait exchanges and the well-being of the people of Taiwan.

Press Contact: Ms. Chan

Phone:+886 2 23975589 ext. 7031

• MAC Press Release No.035.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.035 (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 034

June 24, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) today (June 24) expressed strong dissatisfaction and lodged a serious protest regarding the World Symposium on Choral Music (WSCM 2026), scheduled to be held in Macao from August 23 to 28 this year. The MAC noted that the organizer unilaterally changed the name of Taiwan’s “National Taiwan Hakka Children’s Choir” to “China Taiwan Hakka Children’s Choir” on its official website. The MAC stated that children’s pure voices are a common language that transcends national borders and should never be tainted or suppressed by any political agenda. The MAC strongly condemns the international organization for yielding to specific political pressure and maliciously downgrading Taiwan’s national choir.

　　The MAC explained that the National Taiwan Hakka Children’s Choir is a national choir established in accordance with law under the Republic of China’s Hakka Affairs Council (HAC). It represents Taiwan’s diverse and rich cultural heritage, as well as its exceptional choral artistry. Its selection to participate in this major international event was no small achievement, and international organizations should respect participating groups and should not impose political frameworks on purely civilian cultural and artistic activities. The MAC will fully support the competent authority, the HAC, and the choir in using relevant channels to lodge a formal protest and request for correction with the organizer, the International Federation for Choral Music (IFCM), in order to defend Taiwan’s legitimate rights, interests, and dignity.

　　The MAC emphasized that the musical talent and dedication of Taiwan’s children should not become casualties of political manipulation. It called on the organizer to face squarely the international community’s values of diversity and inclusion, promptly restore the choir’s official name, and allow the children’s pure voices to be heard freely on the international stage.

　　The MAC further pointed out that civilian cultural, artistic, and academic exchanges across the Taiwan Strait should be conducted on the basis of parity, dignity, and mutual respect. The mainland Chinese side’s all-out suppression of Taiwan’s civic groups in the international arena will not earn the respect of the international community. Rather, it will only harm the sentiment between people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. The government will continue to stand firmly behind Taiwan’s civic groups and actively safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Taiwanese citizens participating in international activities.

Press Contact: Ms. Chan

Phone: +886 2 23975589 ext. 7031

• MAC Press Release No.034.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.034 (Chinese).pdf

News Reference Material
June 22, 2026

　　Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung attended the Regional Order Seminar today (June 22), which was held at National Chengchi University’s Center for Public and Business Administration Education. The seminar was jointly organized by the Center for Mainland China and Regional Development Research at Tunghai University and the European Community Studies Association Taiwan (ECSA-Taiwan). Deputy Minister Shen delivered public remarks on cross-Strait relations. Also in attendance were Deputy Minister François Chihchung Wu of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as scholars from Europe and Taiwan.

　　Deputy Minister Shen emphasized in his remarks that since Xi Jinping came to power, the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) ambition to annex Taiwan has grown stronger by the day. This is the primary reason the status quo across the Taiwan Strait is being challenged and peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait are facing mounting pressure. The CCP’s military pressure, diplomatic suppression, economic coercion, social infiltration and united front operations targeting Taiwan through cross-Strait exchanges, and various forms of cognitive warfare have all intensified compared with the past.

　　Deputy Minister Shen pointed out that the CCP’s recent claim that it is carrying out “normalized near-shore governance” in the waters east of Taiwan represents a new form of gray-zone coercion and an attempt to change the cross-Strait status quo. Such gray-zone harassment not only threatens Taiwan, but also harasses neighboring countries such as Japan and the Philippines, further confirming China’s role as the geopolitical disruptor in the region.

　　Deputy Minister Shen stressed that Taiwan has no issue of independence. Maintaining the development and prosperity of the Republic of China (ROC) and defending its free and democratic way of life remain the government’s unchanged policy goals. It is also an objective fact that neither the ROC nor the People’s Republic of China is subordinate to the other. Beijing’s refusal to accept the existence of the ROC or engage in dialogue with Taiwan’s democratically elected government is a source of instability in the Indo-Pacific region and the Taiwan Strait.

　　Deputy Minister Shen concluded by calling on the CCP to abandon its use of military coercion against Taiwan. He also called on democracies around the world to deepen solidarity and cooperation in the face of authoritarian expansion. The current peaceful and stable status quo in the Taiwan Strait serves the common interests of Taiwan and democracies worldwide. Taiwan will continue to strengthen its determination and capabilities for self-defense, deepen cooperation with democracies around the world, enhance its democratic resilience in the economic and social spheres, and work with democratic partners to jointly safeguard the status quo of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

• CCP’s New Forms of Gray-Zone Harassment in Taiwan’s Waters Continue to Undermine the Cross-Strait Status Quo.pdf
• CCP’s New Forms of Gray-Zone Harassment in Taiwan’s Waters Continue to Undermine the Cross-Strait Status Quo (Chinese).pdf

News Reference Material
June 17, 2026

　　In response to remarks made by Legislator Wang Hung-wei during interpellation at the Legislative Yuan today (June 17) concerning the Mainland Affairs Council’s (MAC) NT$980,000 office renovation expenditure, the MAC hereby provides the following clarification:

I. Given the MAC’s shortage of conference room space and its frequent need to convene closed-door meetings, the MAC, after multiple assessments and coordination with the Taiwan-Hong Kong Economic and Cultural Cooperation Council (THEC), renovated the former office of the THEC chairperson into a multifunctional conference room. In addition to supporting THEC operations (including that of the Cultural Cooperation Committee and the Economic Cooperation Committee), the room may also be used for some of the MAC’s closed-door meetings. This arrangement will allow the space to be used more effectively while reducing the cost of renting external venues.

II. Given that the space had not been renovated for 30 years, repairs were necessary for its fire safety facilities, ceiling, flooring, walls, electromechanical wiring, air conditioning, and other systems. In accordance with relevant provisions of the Government Procurement Act, and with due consideration given to fire safety, actual operational needs, and quality requirements, the MAC followed the principle of fiscal prudence by conducting several rounds of price negotiation with the contractor, ultimately awarding the contract at NT$980,000.

III. Legislator Wang’s remarks during interpellation today contained two points that could mislead the public:

1. The photo shown in the legislator’s presentation during interpellation (as provided in Attachment 1) does not depict the MAC’s 18th floor multifunctional conference room (shown in Attachments 2 and 3).

2. The threshold amount under the “Tendering Regulations of Central Government Entities for Procurement of a Value Not Reaching the Threshold” was raised from NT$1 million to NT$1.5 million in 2023. Therefore, contrary to Legislator Wang’s claim, the MAC did not intentionally keep the amount below NT$1 million to evade procurement regulations.

• Clarification Regarding the MAC’s NT$980,000 Office Renovation Expenditure.pdf
• Clarification Regarding the MAC’s NT$980,000 Office Renovation Expenditure (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 033

June 16, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) today (June 16) expressed strong protest and condemnation over the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) pressure on the Kenyan government to obstruct Taiwan’s participation in this year’s 11th Our Ocean Conference (OOC 11), and over its restrictions on the personal freedom and communications of Taiwanese scholars.

　　The MAC pointed out that Taiwan has long actively participated in exchanges and cooperation in global ocean affairs. Since 2015, Taiwan has continued to participate in the “Our Ocean Conference,” earning broad recognition from the international community. However, the Beijing authorities have persisted in constraining Taiwan’s international participation through diplomatic suppression and other means. They have now further extended their political interference to international ocean cooperation and academic exchanges by excluding Taiwan from participation, and even detaining Taiwanese scholars for more than 20 hours. These actions once again expose the CCP’s hegemonic mindset of placing politics above professionalism and using authoritarian means to interfere in international affairs.

　　The MAC emphasized that the Republic of China (ROC) has the right to participate in the international community. The CCP’s repeated use of its “one China principle” to pressure other countries into obstructing Taiwan’s participation in international affairs will not change the status quo in the Taiwan Strait that neither the ROC nor the People’s Republic of China (PRC) is subordinate to the other, nor will it change the objective fact that Taiwan has never been part of the PRC. Such actions will not weaken Taiwan’s unwavering determination to participate in the international community, nor will they cause the people of Taiwan to retreat or yield in the face of the CCP’s intimidation and threats. Taiwan will continue working with its friends and allies to contribute to international cooperation on ocean affairs and sustainable development.

Press Contact: Ms. Wu

Phone: +886 2 23975589 ext. 7024

• MAC Press Release No.033 .pdf
• MAC Press Release No.033 (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 032

Date: June 13, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) today (June 13) emphasized that the fundamental reason cross-Strait communication mechanisms have been unable to operate smoothly lies in the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) authorities’ persistent refusal to face the objective fact of the Republic of China’s (ROC) existence, their imposition of political preconditions on cross-Strait communication and dialogue, and their failure to pragmatically face Taiwan’s mainstream public opinion. This statement was made in response to Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) Chairman Wang Huning meeting with Taiwanese opposition figures at the “Straits Forum” and delivering remarks at the main conference, where he reiterated the CCP’ old rhetoric toward Taiwan, including the “one China principle” and the “1992 Consensus,” and once again blamed the Taiwan for the impasse in cross-Strait relations. The MAC deeply regrets that opposition political figures in Taiwan echoed the CCP’s distorted narratives.

　　The MAC pointed out that “Xi’s Five Points,” announced in 2019, redefined the “1992 Consensus” as the “‘1992 Consensus’ under which the two sides of the Taiwan Strait jointly seek national unification.” The “one China principle,” the “1992 Consensus,” and the “one country, two systems” model have together formed the CCP’s three-pronged policy toward Taiwan, a framework that leaves no room for the survival of the ROC. The MAC’s long-term public opinion surveys consistently show that more than 80% of the people in Taiwan oppose the CCP’s political proposition of “one country, two systems.” The government therefore cannot possibly go against Taiwan’s mainstream public opinion or compromise democratic principles to accommodate the CCP’s political framework.

　　The MAC stated that certain party and political figures in Taiwan have led delegations to mainland China and echoed the CCP’s narratives on national rejuvenation and the so-called “broken chain” in cross-Strait relations. Such conduct contributes nothing to improving cross-Strait relations. Instead, it deepens division and confrontation in Taiwan, undermines democratic resilience, and sends the wrong message to the international community that Taiwan voluntarily accepts the CCP’s political preconditions. The government calls on all sectors to comply with laws and regulations when conducting exchanges in mainland China, remain attentive to Taiwanese social perceptions, and avoid becoming propaganda tools for the CCP authorities’ united front operations against Taiwan. All parties should work together to safeguard national sovereignty and dignity.

　　The MAC pointed out that the CCP authorities have long pursued a “dual-track strategy” toward Taiwan on parallel tracks. On the one hand, the CCP continues to harass Taiwan with military aircraft and vessels and carry out normalized gray-zone harassment in the waters east of Taiwan and the surrounding sea and airspace, seriously undermining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the region. On the other hand, it aggressively promotes so-called “integration and development” and people-to-people exchanges. This deceptive approach of “coercion under the guise of integration” cannot conceal the CCP’s political intent to annex Taiwan.

　　The MAC emphasized that maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is the shared responsibility of both sides. It calls on the Beijing authorities to face the objective fact of the ROC’s existence, cease its harmful practice of exerting compound pressure against Taiwan, and engage in communication and dialogue with Taiwan’s democratically elected and legitimate government on the basis of parity and dignity and without political preconditions. Through such efforts, the two sides can resolve differences and jointly safeguard peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, as well as the well-being of the people on both sides.

Press Contact: Ms. Chen

Phone: +886 9 63 604 576

• MAC Press Release No.032.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.032 (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 031

Date: June 12, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) stated today (June 12) that Chinese Communist Party (CCP) official vessels yesterday (June 11) intruded into the prohibited waters off Taiping Island. During their intrusion into Taiwan’s waters, the vessels maliciously changed course with blatant disregard for maritime navigation safety, endangering the Coast Guard Administration vessels and law enforcement personnel. By using gray-zone harassment to undermine Taiwan’s sovereignty and the status quo of regional peace and stability, the CCP has become the troublemaker for strategic stability in East Asia. The MAC expresses strong condemnation and lodges a serious protest.

　　The MAC explained that Taiping Island is the inherent territory of the Republic of China (ROC), over which the ROC exercises full sovereignty. CCP official vessels illegally intruded into the prohibited waters off Taiping Island and used dangerous navigation maneuvers to provoke Taiwan’s Coast Guard vessels, in an attempt to create the false impression that the CCP has jurisdiction over Taiwan’s waters. Coast Guard Administration personnel have taken firm action to defend the nation’s blue territory, and deserve the recognition and support of the Taiwanese people.

　　The MAC emphasized that over recent years, the CCP has frequently used tactics of “law enforcement in name, harassment in fact” to bully neighboring countries and expand its illegal sovereignty claims, making it the troublemaker undermining strategic stability in East Asia. The government will continue to pursue international cooperation and communication, work with friends and allies to counter the CCP’s expansionist schemes, safeguard the maritime rights of all countries, and maintain the status quo of regional peace and stability.

Press Contact: Ms. Chen

Phone: +886 2 23975589 ext. 7010

• MAC Press Release No.031.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.031 (Chinese).pdf

June 12, 2026
News Reference Material

　　Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung attended a symposium yesterday (June 11) at Tunghai University titled “Taiwan Has No ‘Independence’ Issue, Only the Issue of ‘Being Unified.’” Addressing recent developments across the Taiwan Strait, particularly the CCP’s new form of “gray-zone harassment” in Taiwan’s eastern waters, Deputy Minister Shen solemnly stated Taiwan’s position. He emphasized that the CCP has seized the opportunity to expand maritime conflicts and harassment in an attempt to change the status quo and undermine regional stability. Such actions have drawn international disapproval, and Taiwan’s Coast Guard Administration has conducted parallel monitoring of all provocative vessels dispatched by the CCP as well as take firm actions to expel them.

　　Deputy Minister Shen pointed out in his remarks that the CCP recently conducted so-called “targeted law enforcement operations” in Taiwan’s eastern waters and spread claims through the media that it had “sternly encircled Taiwan” and “completed sweep and survey operations.” He stated that such claims were nothing more than self-serving and self-deceiving lies. In reality, the CCP is attempting to exploit matters related to negotiations among Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines over maritime economic zones to expand gray-zone conflicts. The CCP’s reckless and provocative dispatch of official vessels to intrude into Taiwan’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) waters, where they have even harassed commercial vessels from other countries, is entirely without legal basis and constitutes an openly challenge to Taiwan’s domestic law and international legal norms, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. For such actions that undermine the status quo and render the CCP as a “troublemaker” for regional stability, Taiwan hereby expresses strong condemnation and calls on the CCP to immediately cease its overbearing conduct.

　　Deputy Minister Shen reiterated that negotiations concerning Taiwan’s eastern waters and continental shelf are matters to be addressed among the Republic of China (ROC), Japan, and the Philippines, and have nothing whatsoever to do with the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Taiwan’s sovereign rights under international law and the Law of the Sea are indisputable. On this basis, Taiwan will continue consultations and communication with Japan and the Philippines, while ensuring that Taiwan’s sovereignty and fishing rights will not be affected by Japan-Philippines negotiations. The CCP should recognize that the recently established “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” between Japan and the Philippines is precisely a response to the threat posed by the CCP’s military expansion and its continuous escalation of conflicts. Such actions are entirely unreasonable, irresponsible, and amount to bullying behavior. 

　　Deputy Minister Shen further stated that maintaining the status quo of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait is the government’s consistent principle in handling cross-Strait issues. This position not only reflects Taiwan’s mainstream public opinion, but also serves the common interest and shared objective of democratic countries around the world. The MAC calls on the CCP not to disregard Taiwan’s public opinion or challenge the interests of democratic countries worldwide. Instead, it should face the objective fact of the ROC’s existence, engage in communication and dialogue with Taiwan’s democratically elected government, and abandon irresponsible methods such as using military coercion to undermine the status quo.

　　Deputy Minister Shen then emphasized that Taiwan does not face an issue of “independence,” but rather coercion and pressure to be unified under authoritarian rule. Taiwan must never accommodate the CCP’s “one China narrative” under pressure, and any attempt by the CCP to disguise compromise as peace would never bring stable or reliable peace. Only by defending sovereignty through strength and securing peace on the basis of sovereignty can peace be reliable and sustainable. He called on the people of Taiwan, regardless of party affiliation, to stand united and work with the government to defend national sovereignty and firmly safeguard Taiwan’s free and democratic way of life.

• MAC Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung Attends Tunghai University Symposium, Condemns PRC Attempts to Undermine the Status Quo, and Says Taiwan Forcefully Expelled Harassing Vessels to Safeguard Sovereignty and Fishing Rights.pdf
• MAC Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung Attends Tunghai University Symposium, Condemns PRC Attempts to Undermine the Status Quo, and Says Taiwan Forcefully Expelled Harassing Vessels to Safeguard Sovereignty and Fishing Rig.pdf

MAC Press Release No. 030

Date: June 9, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) stated today (June 9) that People’s Republic of China (PRC) official vessels, without cause, harassed a foreign commercial vessel transiting through the exclusive economic zone of the Republic of China (ROC). Such conduct constitutes a serious violation of international law and international conventions, undermines regional peace and stability. The MAC hereby strongly condemns these actions.

　　The MAC explained that, under ROC domestic law, international law, and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, the ROC’s sovereign rights in its exclusive economic zone are indisputable and must not be challenged. Neither the ROC nor the PRC is subordinate to the other. The PRC has no sovereignty or jurisdiction whatsoever over the waters east of Taiwan. Its scheme to use this incident to expand the scope of its sovereignty will absolutely not succeed.

　　The MAC emphasized that the Beijing authorities are exploiting the situation to provoke incidents and stir up trouble. Taiwan absolutely will never accept such actions and has lodged a serious protest. The Coast Guard Administration has maintained monitoring the situation and taken concrete action to firmly safeguard our national sovereignty and ensure our maritime security. Members of the public can rest assured.

Press Contact: Ms. Chan

Phone: +886 9 63 604 579

• MAC Press Release No.030.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.030 (Chinese).pdf

News Reference Material
June 6, 2026

　　Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung attended the “Symposium on US-China Competition and Taiwan Strait Security in the Xi Jinping Era” at National Chung Hsing University today (June 6). Deputy Minister Shen issued a serious warning over the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) comprehensive expansion in the economic, trade, military, and nationalist domains. He emphasized that, in the face of authoritarian oppression, “peace does not mean lying flat,” and that Taiwan must strengthen deterrence and deepen international cooperation to safeguard national sovereignty and protect its free and democratic way of life.

　　Deputy Minister Shen offered an in-depth analysis of the CCPs current authoritarian expansion across three dimensions: Taiwan, the Indo-Pacific region, and the global democratic community. With respect to Taiwan, Xi Jinping’s current Taiwan policy not only continues political intimidation and military coercion against Taiwan, but also relies on the CCP’s customary “one China narrative,” together with the tactics of “promoting unification and integration while opposing independence and external interference,” to infiltrate Taiwan. Its ultimate aim is to eliminate the Republic of China (ROC) and destroy Taiwan’s hard-earned freedom and democracy.

　　With respect to Indo-Pacific regional security, Japan and the Philippines have recently held consultations on their exclusive economic zones under the framework of their “comprehensive strategic partnership” in response to the CCP’s expansion. Taiwan emphasized that it has existing agreements with both Japan and the Philippines, and that its sovereignty and fishing rights will in no way be affected. The real threat to Taiwan is the CCP’s attempt to use this issue to impose its “one China principle” and eliminate the sovereignty of the ROC. The CCP is also taking advantage of this issue to expand the scope of its coast guard operations and gray-zone harassment, including incursions by military aircraft and vessels around Taiwan. Such actions seriously undermine regional security and leave no doubt that the CCP is, by every measure, the troublemaker in the region.

　　With respect to the global democratic community, the CCP is using its “Belt and Road Initiative”to gain influence over critical infrastructure in other countries and carry out transnational repression. At the same time, the CCP is actively promoting the “Global South” and leading a new authoritarian bloc comprising China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, often referred to as CRINK, posing a concrete threat to democracies worldwide.

　　Deputy Minister Shen also reflected on the nature of authoritarian systems by examining historical events. He recalled that, during the “Tiananmen Square Incident” 37 years ago, the CCP used force to suppress the younger generations pursuit of freedom and crushed Chinas aspiration of pluralistic democracy. After Hong Kong was taken over by the CCP in 1997, its freedom and democracy were completely extinguished under the false promise of “one country, two systems,” forcing a generation of young people in Hong Kong into exile overseas.

　　Deputy Minister Shen emphasized that, “as the CCP targets Taiwan and seeks to coerce Taiwan into accepting its one China narrative and the 1992 Consensus, the people of Taiwan must stand united.” “Peace” must never be achieved by compromising through accepting the one China narrative, because doing so would be tantamount to accepting the claim that Taiwan Strait issues are China’s internal affairs and to surrendering to authoritarianism. The government is committed to maintaining the peaceful and stable status quo across the Taiwan Strait and firmly opposes any attempt to change the status quo by force. This not only defends Taiwan’s national sovereignty, but also safeguards the common interests of the Indo-Pacific region and democratic countries worldwide.

　　Today’s symposium focused on global, Indo-Pacific, and cross-Strait issues. Drawing on the analyses of participating scholars, the symposium examined the CCP’s ongoing undermining of the cross-Strait status quo, as well as its threats to the Indo-Pacific region and global democratic community. The symposium also provided the government with further recommendations for its cross-Strait policy.

• MAC Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung Raises Warning at the Symposium on US-China Competition and Taiwan Strait Security in the Xi Jinping Era.pdf
• MAC Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung Raises Warning at the Symposium on US-China Competition and Taiwan Strait Security in the Xi Jinping Era (Chinese).pdf

News Reference Material

June 4, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) stated today (June 4) that the “Straits Forum” is a Chinese Communist Party (CCP) united front platform targeting Taiwan. To prevent the CCP from using the “Straits Forum” to conduct united front operations against Taiwan, sow division in Taiwanese society, and advance its agenda of “promoting integration and promoting unification,” the government’s policy position is as follows:

I. Activities related to the “Straits Forum” are prohibited from being held in Taiwan, and co-organizing such activities with the mainland Chinese side is also prohibited: The “Straits Forum” is, in essence, a CCP united front platform. The mainland Chinese side must not hold any sub-forums or follow-up activities related to the forum in Taiwan. Taiwan’s local governments, individuals, or organizations must not co-organize forum-related activities in Taiwan with the mainland Chinese side, or otherwise facilitate or result in such activities being held in Taiwan.

II. Personnel of central government agencies and local governments are prohibited from participating in related activities: Personnel of central ministries and agencies, local governments, and their subordinate agencies and units are prohibited from participating, in any form, in the “Straits Forum” or related activities.

III. Participation in activities whose objective is to eliminate the Republic of China, such as those related to the “one country, two systems model for Taiwan” or “democratic consultations,” is prohibited: Agencies or institutions, individuals, organizations, and political parties are prohibited from participating, in any form, in activities related to the “one country, two systems model for Taiwan,” “democratic consultations,” or other similar activities. Where any violation of the law is involved, the competent authorities will handle the matter in accordance with the law.

IV. Taiwanese citizens are reminded to comply with the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area (the Cross-Strait Act) and relevant regulations to avoid violating the law: To prevent CCP united front infiltration against Taiwan from harming national sovereignty and democratic constitutional order, Taiwanese citizens are reminded to comply with the Cross-Strait Act and relevant laws and regulations. They must not, without authorization, sign agreements, memoranda, or other documents with the mainland Chinese side; engage in unlawful cooperation or enter into alliances with the mainland Chinese side; or engage in unlawful conduct as instructed, commissioned, or funded by the mainland Chinese side.

V. Taiwanese citizens are reminded to remain alert to personal safety risks when traveling to mainland China: In view of the CCP’s continued enactment and amendment of national security laws and regulations, as well as its issuance of the so-called “Judicial Guidelines on Imposing Criminal Punishment on Diehard Taiwan Independence Separatists for Conducting or Inciting Secession,” multiple Taiwanese citizens traveling to mainland China have been unlawfully detained, held, or questioned, posing serious threats to their personal safety. Taiwanese citizens are advised to carefully assess the necessity of traveling to mainland China before departure, take note of guidance on cross-Strait exchanges and personal safety, and use the MAC’s Online Registration System for Taiwanese Citizens Visiting Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao, so that the government can promptly contact them and provide timely assistance in the event of an emergency during their stay in mainland China.

VI. The MAC calls on all sectors of society and political parties not to echo CCP narratives on Taiwan or serve as tools of its united front operations against Taiwan: The MAC calls on all sectors of society and political parties to comply with relevant regulations. It also advises members of the public and civil society organizations in Taiwan to heed Taiwan’s mainstream public opinion and public sentiment, refrain from cooperating with or echoing CCP narratives on Taiwan, avoid serving as tools of the CCP’s united front operations against Taiwan, and avoid sending misleading signals to the international community. All sectors should work together to safeguard national sovereignty and the core values of freedom and democracy.

• Government’s Policy Position on the CCP’s “Straits Forum”.pdf
• Government’s Policy Position on the CCP’s “Straits Forum” (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 029

June 3, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) issued a statement today (June 3), on the eve of the 37th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square Incident, calling on the Beijing authorities to face up to the historical facts of the incident and respond to the people’s calls for fairness and justice, basic rights, and civic participation. The MAC urged Beijing to promptly initiate reforms of its political system and stop controlling the country through one-party dictatorship. Only then can basic human rights be truly protected and a genuinely civilized society be realized.

　　The MAC pointed out that the Beijing authorities commemorate the “May Fourth Movement” with great fanfare every year and praise the progressive spirit of youth. Yet they have never properly recognized the young people who gathered in Tiananmen Square 37 years ago, who likewise acted out of sincere patriotism and sought to fight corruption and pursue change, nor have they given them the fairness and justice they deserve. Such double standards and the collective suppression of historical memory do nothing to help resolve the various social problems and deep-seated contradictions currently facing mainland China. Instead, they only push mainland China further away from universal values.

　　The MAC emphasized that this year also marks the 30th anniversary of the Republic of China’s first direct presidential election. Over the past 30 years, through democratic practice and peaceful transfers of power between political parties, the people of Taiwan have proven that a governance framework and way of life based on freedom and democracy have not only taken root and flourished in Chinese societies, but are also an indispensable and precious asset of human civilization. This demonstrates that democracy is by no means incompatible with local conditions. Rather, it is the best choice for ensuring lasting national stability and social prosperity. We solemnly call on the Beijing authorities to respect the people of Taiwan’s commitment to democracy and their choice of a democratic system, and to cease their intimidation and coercion against Taiwan. Only with substantial improvements in the human rights situation within mainland China, and through rational communication and dialogue based on parity and dignity, can confrontation be resolved and cross-Strait mutual trust be rebuilt.

Press Contact: Ms. Chan

Phone: +886 2 23975589 ext. 7031

• MAC Press Release No.029.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.029 (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 028

May 28, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) announced the results of a public opinion survey today (May 28). The findings show that the people of Taiwan firmly oppose the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) political propositions of “one country, two systems” and “peaceful unification,” as well as its actions that undermine peace in the Taiwan Strait, including diplomatic suppression of Taiwan. The survey also indicates that the public supports the government’s cross-Strait policy position, its efforts to strengthen self-defense, and its commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

　　The MAC stated that the survey results show that nearly 80% of the public (79.7%) disagree with the CCP’s “one country, two systems” proposition, and nearly 90% (87.1%) disagree with the view that “it does not matter if Taiwan accepts ‘one country, two systems’ and ‘peaceful unification,’ even if it means losing freedom and democracy.” A majority of the public (82.2%) disagree with the CCP’s actions in seeking to obstruct the President’s overseas visit to a diplomatic ally aboard the presidential administrative aircraft, and nearly 50% (47.4%) believe that it is the CCP that is undermining peace in the Taiwan Strait.

　　The MAC pointed out that this survey reflects Taiwan’s mainstream public opinion in support of the government’s cross-Strait policy position that neither side of the Taiwan Strait is subordinate to the other, that Taiwan should strengthen its self-defense capabilities, and that the peaceful and stable status quo in the Taiwan Strait should be maintained. Over 70% of the public (72.6%) agree with the statement that “neither the Republic of China (ROC) nor the People’s Republic of China is subordinate to the other”. More than 80% support the positions that “Taiwan’s future must be decided jointly by its 23 million people” (88.0%) and that “Taiwan’s top priority at present is to maintain the peaceful and stable status quo in the Taiwan Strait” (85.6%). More than 70% of the public (71.9%) support the government increasing the defense budget to strengthen self-defense capabilities.

　　The MAC emphasized that, in the face of the CCP’s ongoing efforts to advance unification and its coercive pressure against Taiwan, the government will uphold the “Four Commitments,” actively implement the “Four Pillars of Peace Action Plan” and the “national security action plans to safeguard democratic Taiwan,” strengthen whole-of-society defense resilience and democratic defense mechanisms, and safeguard national sovereignty and security as well as Taiwan’s overall interests.

　　The MAC called on the CCP authorities to pragmatically face the objective fact of the ROC’s existence and Taiwan’s mainstream public opinion, abandon negative actions toward Taiwan, and engage in communication and dialogue with Taiwan’s democratically elected and legitimate government without preconditions, so as to contribute to long-term peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

　　The MAC commissioned Ipsos Limited to conduct a telephone survey of adults aged 20 and over in Taiwan from May 22 to 23 and May 25 to 26, 2026. A total of 1,073 valid samples were collected, with a sampling error of ±2.99% at a 95% confidence level.

Press Contact: Ms. Chan

Phone: +886 2 23975589 ext.7031

• MAC Press Release No.028.pdf
• 20260528_Summarized Results.pdf
• 20260528_Percentage_Distribution.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.028 (Chinese).pdf

News Reference Material

May 28, 2026

　　Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung attended a symposium today (May 28) titled “New United States (US)-China and Cross-Strait Dynamics Following the ‘Trump-Xi Meeting.’” He cautioned that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has recently used multiple external engagements to propagate its erroneous “One China” narrative from various angles. He also pointed out that Taiwan is the defender of the peaceful and stable status quo in the Taiwan Strait and will continue to deepen cooperation with friends and allies to jointly safeguard prosperity and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the broader region. Deputy Minister Shen also called on the people of Taiwan to reinforce their national identity and defend their democratic way of life.

　　Deputy Minister Shen stated that the CCP’s actions toward Taiwan this year have intensified the so-called “Two Promotions and Two Oppositions” policy, namely “promoting unification and integration while opposing independence and external interference.” In multiple recent external engagements, the CCP has repeatedly invoked the “Two Promotions and Two Oppositions” to intensify united front pressure against Taiwan. For instance, at the “Trump-Xi Meeting,” the Chinese side’s objective was to pressure the US into “opposing independence and external interference,” even demanding that the US stop arms sales to Taiwan. In response, the US has repeatedly reiterated that its policy toward Taiwan remains unchanged, and that it stands firmly on the side of maintaining the peaceful and stable status quo in the Taiwan Strait, a stance fully aligned with Taiwan’s own cross-strait policy. Furthermore, at the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held in India on May 26, participating countries also reaffirmed their opposition to actions that seek to change the status quo by force or coercion, while expressing support for a free and open Indo-Pacific region. This demonstrates that safeguarding peace across the Taiwan Strait and the broader region is a shared interest of the international community.

　　Deputy Minister Shen further pointed out that before the “Trump-Xi Meeting,” the “Xi-Cheng Meeting” had already intensified efforts to “promote unification and integration,” demanding that Taiwan’s opposition parties parrot the CCP’s “One China” narrative in an attempt to create the false perception that Taiwan is also part of the People’s Republic of China. Immediately following the “Trump-Xi Meeting,” the CCP arranged visits for the leaders of countries including Russia and Serbia to China, both to consolidate the China-led “authoritarian aggression bloc,” and to compel these authoritarian countries to endorse its “One China” narrative. This underscores that the “alliance of aggressors” formed by the CCP and certain autocratic regimes poses the greatest threat to regional stability and even global democracy.

　　Deputy Minister Shen concluded by stating that, according to the MAC’s latest public opinion survey, more than 80% of the Taiwanese people do not accept the “One Country, Two Systems” framework and disapprove of the CCP’s international suppression of Taiwan. Additionally, over 80% support maintaining the peaceful and stable status quo across the Taiwan Strait, and believe that Taiwan’s future should be decided solely by its 23 million people. This indicates that the public’s resolve to defend national sovereignty, freedom, and democracy remains unshaken by the CCP’s recent external engagements.

　　In the face of the CCP’s hybrid pressure and threats, the government will continue to act in accordance with the principle of the “Four Commitments”—neither yielding nor provoking—and firmly safeguard national sovereignty and our democratic, free, and rule-of-law way of life, while defending the right of the 23 million Taiwanese people to determine their own future. Internationally, the government will continue to deepen communication and cooperation with democratic friends and allies such as the US and Japan. Domestically, it calls on the people of Taiwan, regardless of party affiliation, to unite in strengthening national identity and democratic convictions, and to jointly safeguard prosperity and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the broader region.

• MAC Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung Emphasizes Taiwan’s Role as Defender of the Peaceful and Stable Status Quo in the Taiwan Strait; Warns of CCP.pdf
• MAC Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung Emphasizes Taiwan’s Role as Defender of the Peaceful and Stable Status Quo in the Taiwan Strait; Warns of CCP’s Erroneous “One China” Narrative Through Multiple External Engagements; .pdf

News Reference Material
May 27, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) recently held its 78th Advisory Committee Meeting on the topic of “The Impact of Mainland China’s Economic and Political Risks on Cross-Strait Economic and Trade Relations and Taiwanese Businesspeople, and Responses.” Remarks and key points from the discussions by the introductory speaker and attending advisory committee members are as follows:

I. The scholar’s introductory remarks noted that mainland China is facing structural problems, including weak domestic demand, overcapacity, population aging, a sluggish real estate market, and rising local government debt. Externally, it faces risks from the technology war between the United States (US) and China, geopolitical tensions, and international trade frictions caused by low-price dumping, all of which have forced its economic development model to shift toward domestic consumption and innovation-driven reform. However, its economic growth momentum remains highly dependent on exports, while economic stimulus policies such as expanding domestic demand have produced limited results. In April of this year, total retail sales of consumer goods grew by only 0.2%, marking a nearly three-and-a-half year low. The Consumer Price Index in April increased by only 1.2% year-on-year. Fixed asset investment from January to April fell by 1.6% year-on-year, turning negative for the first time this year. International institutions forecast that mainland China’s future economic growth rate may fall below 4.5%, suggesting a shift toward slower growth.

II. Some committee members expressed concern that consumption accounts for around 40% of mainland China’s GDP, below the international level of above 50%. In addition, the recent downturn in the real estate sector and the problem of unfinished housing projects have continued to weaken investment momentum in related industries. State-owned enterprises are playing an increasingly prominent role in infrastructure and strategic industry investment. Meanwhile, amid uncertainty in the market environment and centralized political intervention, investment by private enterprises and foreign investors has remained sluggish. The trend of “the state advances as the private sector retreats” has become increasingly evident, and the investment patterns have diverged.

III. Some committee members pointed out that mainland China’s “15th Five-Year Plan” focuses on developing new productive forces, enhancing technological sovereignty, and actively developing emerging technology industries such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and new energy storage equipment. It seeks to use high-tech manufacturing to drive economic growth. However, the value-added multiplier effect of these industries falls far short of the effect that the traditional real estate sector has had in driving employment and domestic demand. Moreover, with advanced chips are still subject to external containment and embargoes, these industries will find it difficult in the short to medium term to fill the domestic demand gap caused by the real estate downturn. Nevertheless, mainland China’s competitiveness in AI model applications and domestic substitution still warrants close attention.

IV. Some committee members believed that US-China strategic competition have escalated from trade issues to a contest for leadership in technological development and rule-setting power. In the future, global digital technology policy may be divided into three models: mainland China, the US, and Europe. Among them, mainland China’s institutional rules are expected to be adopted and put into practice in developing “Belt and Road” countries, including those in Africa and Latin America. In addition, the conflict in the Middle East has further highlighted how mainland China has elevated new energy policy into a strategic lever for reshaping the future global industrial order, technical standards, and international influence. Mainland China’s investment in renewable energy, including wind power, solar energy facilities, and batteries, far exceeds that of other countries, placing it in competition with US-led fossil fuel energy. In the face of such systemic trends, Taiwan needs to adopt more flexible and diverse strategic responses, establish an irreplaceable technological position and shared resilience goals, and ensure strategic autonomy amid the restructuring of global supply chains.

V. Some committee members observed that the Trump administration, facing pressure from this year’s midterm elections, brought about the Trump-Xi meeting to rebuild a dialogue framework and reduce the risk of conflict through high-level interactions between US and mainland Chinese leaders. With both sides maintaining a posture of “competing while avoiding a rupture,” they are seeking negotiating leverage and room for strategic adjustment, entering a stage of “constructive strategic stability.” Semiconductors, AI, rare earths, supply chains, and Indo-Pacific security remain the core battlegrounds. In response to the political moves by the mainland Chinese side, Taiwan must continue strengthening relations with the US and Japan, while using media communications and exchanges among civil society groups to solidify the trust of allies and partners.

VI. Some committee members noted that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has pointed out that mainland China’s industrial subsidy policies, which emphasize production over demand, are generating international spillover effects and pressure. Its overcapacity and the influx of low-priced products into international markets have led to market dominance in local markets and threatened the survival of businesses, intensified global trade tensions, and prompted protective countermeasures such as anti-dumping and countervailing measures. Taiwan must pay close attention to the impact that low-price dumping of mainland Chinese products may have on key sector affecting people’s daily lives and even on national security. Taiwan should also remain vigilant against the CCP’s sustained gray-zone pressure tactics, and continue strengthening the security and resilience of Taiwan’s energy, shipping, finance, and supply chains.

*The MAC Advisory Committee Meeting is formed of experts and scholars in related fields. The views and opinions expressed in the meetings or excerpted in this article belong solely to the speakers.

• The 78th MAC Advisory Committee Meeting Highlights and Key Points of Discussion by Attending Committee Members.pdf
• The 78th MAC Advisory Committee Meeting Highlights and Key Points of Discussion by Attending Committee Members (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 027

Date: May 23, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) noted today (May 23) that a mine explosion occurred last night (May 22) in Qinyuan County, Changzhi City, Shanxi Province, mainland China. According to the latest mainland Chinese media reports, the accident has so far resulted in 82 deaths, with some personnel still trapped and awaiting rescue. The MAC explained that, based on the Straits Exchange Foundation’s preliminary understanding, relevant local authorities are making every effort to carry out rescue operations, and that no Taiwanese citizens were present in the mining area. The government will continue to closely monitor subsequent developments in this case. The MAC expressed hope that the trapped personnel would be rescued and brought to safety as soon as possible, extended sympathies to the relevant parties affected in mainland China, prayed that the deceased may rest in peace, and expressed hope that follow-up recovery efforts would proceed smoothly.

Press Contact: Ms. Chan

Phone: +886 963 604 579

• MAC Press Release No.027.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.027 (Chinese).pdf

News Reference Material
May 19, 2026

　　Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung today (May 19) attended a symposium titled “Developments in the United States (US)-China-Taiwan and the Cross-Strait Situation After the ‘Trump-Xi Meeting.’” He emphasized that US policy toward Taiwan remains unchanged, and that the US has made no commitments to the Chinese side regarding arms sales to Taiwan. The government’s position on maintaining the status quo remains consistent, and Taiwan will continue to deepen cooperation with the US and other friends and allies to jointly safeguard the status quo of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. 

　　Deputy Minister Shen noted that during the ‘Trump-Xi Meeting’ and the dinner, the US and China indeed discussed various Taiwan-related issues. However, the objective fact is that most of the discussion consisted of the Chinese side stating Beijing’s positions on the relevant issues, while the US side largely listened and made no change to its Taiwan policy. In particular, political leaders including US President Donald Trump himself, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and House Speaker Mike Johnson repeatedly made clear before and after the meeting that US policy toward Taiwan remains consistent and unchanged. US Ambassador to China David Perdue also stated in a recent interview that President Trump had made clear to Xi Jinping that US policy toward Taiwan would not change, and that the US fully supports the “Taiwan Relations Act” and the “Six Assurances.” This demonstrates that there has been no change whatsoever in US policy toward Taiwan.

　　Deputy Minister Shen emphasized that although the US side had mentioned the issue of arms sales as a bargaining chip in negotiations with the Chinese side, President Trump has consistently stressed that he made no commitment to China on arms sales. On the contrary, he emphasized that China should exercise restraint in the geopolitical context of the Taiwan Strait. After the “Trump-Xi Meeting,” US House Speaker Mike Johnson stated that he “supports Taiwan’s autonomy and security.” Autonomy means that Taiwan must not be unified against its will, while security means helping Taiwan strengthen its national defense. A number of bipartisan senators and representatives, as well as think tank scholars, have also expressed support for Taiwan on this issue, and Taiwan will continue to maintain close communication with the US on this matter.

　　Deputy Minister Shen pointed out that, regarding the so-called issue of “Taiwan independence,” “Taiwan independence” is a political term with highly complex connotations. The current situation across the Taiwan Strait is defined by institutional differences, and also by a tug-of-war between being unified and maintaining the status quo. The People’s Republic of China is a dictatorship, while the Republic of China (ROC) is a mature democracy. It is an objective fact that neither side of the Taiwan Strait is subordinate to the other. The current issue for Taiwan is not independence, but the pressure of forced unification under authoritarian rule. On this point, the government’s position has remained consistent and unchanged: the government does not accept forced unification under authoritarian rule, and firmly defends the free and democratic status quo. On cross-Strait issues, this means ensuring the survival and development of the ROC and maintaining the status quo of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. The government rejects the CCP’s “one China” narrative and “one country, two systems,” because these narratives and propositions are aimed at eliminating the ROC and ending Taiwan’s democratic constitutional system.

　　Deputy Minister Shen also pointed out that, from a geopolitical perspective, the CCP has continued to build up its military capabilities and constantly engage in gray-zone coercion and intensify military pressure in areas such as the East China Sea, the Taiwan Strait, and the South China Sea. It is a threat to democracies and a source of regional conflict, and a troublemaker in the Indo-Pacific region. Taiwan, the US, countries along the first island chain, and democratic countries around the world will continue to maintain smooth communication, deepen cooperation, and jointly safeguard peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

　　Deputy Minister Shen explained that the status quo of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait serves the shared interest of Taiwan, the US, and democratic countries around the world. The only party seeking to change the status quo is the CCP, which refuses to renounce the use of force to change that status quo. Taiwan’s pursuit of peace, deepening of democracy, and defense of national sovereignty are all secured through stronger self-defense capabilities and enhanced international cooperation. Echoing the CCP’s “one China” narrative, or even attempting to weaken national defense, will only lead the international community to question Taiwan’s determination to defend itself. Such peace would mean handing Taiwan’s sovereignty and the initiative in cross-Strait relations over to the CCP. Such peace would come at the cost of sacrificing sovereignty and democracy, and would not offer true security. Tibet and Hong Kong already serve as cautionary examples.

　　Deputy Minister Shen concluded by stating that today marks the eve of May 20. Thirty years ago, Taiwan weathered the missile crisis provoked by the CCP, yet still firmly chose the path toward democracy and freedom. Thirty years later, in the face of all forms of CCP suppression, the determination of the Taiwanese people to further deepen democracy and freedom will not waver. Over the past decade, Taiwan has broken free from the “one China” framework and moved toward the world. Its achievements in economic performance, democratic deepening, and other areas are evident to all. The government will continue to uphold the “Four Commitments” as its guiding principles, while deepening communication and cooperation with democratic friends and allies such as the US and Japan. It also calls on the people of Taiwan to support stronger national defense and work with the government to preserve the status quo of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, ensure the survival and development of the ROC, and safeguard Taiwan’s free and democratic way of life.

• MAC Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung Cross-Strait Differences Lies in the Systemic Divide Between Authoritarianism.pdf
• MAC Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung Cross-Strait Differences Lies in the Systemic Divide Between Authoritarianism and Democracy; Government Firmly Defends Taiwan’s Democratic Status Quo and Rejects Unification Under Aut.pdf

News Reference Material
May 18, 2026

　　Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung today (May 18) attended the symposium titled “Prospects for the Development of Cross-Strait Relations After the ‘Trump-Xi Meeting.’” Speaking on the meeting and its impact on cross-Strait relations, Deputy Minister Shen emphasized that United States (US) policy toward Taiwan remains unchanged, and that the US has made no commitments to the Chinese side regarding arms sales to Taiwan. Taiwan will remain committed to maintaining the status quo, continue working closely with the US and other friends and allies, and jointly safeguard peace, stability, and prosperity across the Taiwan Strait and throughout the region.

　　Deputy Minister Shen stated that Taiwan noted that a range of Taiwan-related issues were discussed during the “Trump-Xi Meeting.” Objectively speaking, the Chinese side stated its position, while the US side made clear on multiple occasions before and after the meeting that its Taiwan policy remains consistent and unchanged. In short, the two sides stated their respective positions. As for the issue of arms sales, which has drawn broad public attention, President Trump made even clearer that he had never made any commitment to the Chinese side. In addition, US House Speaker Mike Johnson and a number of bipartisan members of Congress have spoken out in support of Taiwan, emphasizing that maintaining Taiwan’s autonomy and security serves US interests. These actions by the US side demonstrate that there has been no wavering whatsoever in its Taiwan policy or in the importance it attaches to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

　　Deputy Minister Shen emphasized that, with regard to the issue of “Taiwan independence,” the government’s policy has remained consistent and unchanged. Simply put, that policy is to maintain the status quo. The government has always been committed to defending the survival and development of the Republic of China (ROC) and preserving Taiwan’s free and democratic way of life. The ROC has existed for 115 years, and neither the ROC nor the People’s Republic of China is subordinate to the other. Cross-Strait relations are precisely relations between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait.

　　Deputy Minister Shen pointed out that the status quo of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait serves the shared interests of Taiwan and the US. From a geopolitical perspective, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has continued to build up its military capabilities, engage in gray-zone coercion and intensify military pressure in areas such as the East China Sea, the Taiwan Strait, and the South China Sea, making it a threat to democracies and a source of regional conflict. Taiwan, the US, countries along the first island chain, and democratic countries around the world will continue to maintain smooth communication, deepen cooperation, and jointly safeguard peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

　　Deputy Minister Shen reiterated that the CCP’s “one China” narrative leaves no room for the survival of the ROC and constitutes an attempt to change the status quo. The CCP’s “one country, two systems” and “one China” narratives cannot possibly be accepted by mainstream public opinion in Taiwan, and its attempt to change the status quo in the Taiwan Strait by force is even more unacceptable to the international community.

　　Deputy Minister Shen stated that peace, democracy, and national sovereignty can only be secured by strengthening Taiwan’s own capabilities and enhancing international cooperation. Echoing the CCP’s “one China” narrative, or even attempts to weaken national defense, will only lead the international community to question Taiwan’s determination for defend itself. Such peace would mean handing Taiwan’s sovereignty and the initiative in cross-Strait relations over to the CCP. Such peace would come at the cost of sacrificing sovereignty and democracy, and would not offer true security. Tibet and Hong Kong already serve as cautionary examples.

　　Deputy Minister Shen concluded by stating that the government will continue to uphold the “Four Commitments” as its guiding principles. He called on the CCP to face up to the objective fact that the ROC has always existed, abandon its approach of trying to change the status quo by force, engage in dialogue with Taiwan’s democratically elected government, and meet Taiwan halfway. This is what the international community hopes to see, and it is also the approach that will bring peace and stability to both sides of the Taiwan Strait. The government will continue to deepen communication and cooperation with democratic friends and allies such as the US and Japan. It also calls on the people of Taiwan to support stronger national defense and to work together with the government to preserve the status quo of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, ensure the survival and development of the ROC, and safeguard Taiwan’s free and democratic way of life.

• MAC Deputy Minister Shen Yu chung The CCP Is the Greatest Risk to Peace and Stability in the Taiwan Strait; Taiwan Will Continue Working with Democratic Allies and Remain Committed to Maintaining the Status Quo.pdf
• MAC Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung The CCP Is the Greatest Risk to Peace and Stability in the Taiwan Strait; Taiwan Will Continue Working with Democratic Allies and Remain Committed to Maintaining the Status Quo (Chine.pdf

News Reference Material
May 16, 2026

　　Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung attended the Seminar on “United States (US)-China-Taiwan Relations After the ‘Trump-Xi Summit’” today (May 16), where he analyzed the recent “Trump-Xi Meeting” and Xi Jinping’s remarks regarding Taiwan. Deputy Minister Shen emphasized that the “Trump-Xi Meeting” drew close international attention, with two issues at the core of the meeting: first, US policy toward Taiwan remains unchanged; and second, the US made no commitment to the Chinese side regarding arms sales to Taiwan.

　　The US side repeatedly reaffirmed both before and after the “Trump-Xi Meeting” that its policy toward Taiwan remains unchanged, underscoring the great importance it attaches to the Indo-Pacific region. Our side has also solemnly stated that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is the true troublemaker attempting to change the status quo and disrupt regional stability and development.

　　Deputy Minister Shen stated that top US officials, including President Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio,  clearly indicated both before and after the “Trump-Xi Meeting” that the long-standing and consistent US policy toward Taiwan remains unchanged. They also stressed the great importance the US places on regional peace and stability and the maintenance of the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. Prior to the Trump-Xi Meeting, the US maintained close interaction with its Indo-Pacific allies. This included US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s visit to Japan, where he met with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, as well as his meeting in Incheon with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung. Together with earlier joint military exercises conducted by the US, Japan, and the Philippines, and a joint letter from multiple bipartisan US Senators expressing support for Taiwan, these developments all demonstrate that the US continues to work closely with democratic countries along the First Island Chain, including Taiwan, and that its Taiwan policy has neither changed nor wavered.

　　Deputy Minister Shen emphasized that the CCP leader’s remarks at the “Trump-Xi Meeting” rested on a false narrative of conflating so-called “opposition to Taiwan independence” with “peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.” This is nothing more than Beijing’s habitual political rhetoric; Our side hereby solemnly states the following:

　　First, neither the Republic of China (ROC) nor the People’s Republic of China (PRC) is subordinate to the other. The PRC has never governed Taiwan for a single day. No matter how many times the Beijing authorities repeat their so-called “One China” narrative, and regardless of whether anyone echoes it, none of this will change the objective fact of the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. The Beijing authorities have no right to represent Taiwan, and certainly have no right to make any claims internationally concerning the sovereignty of the ROC.

　　Second, while the Beijing authorities speak of peace and stability, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has continuously engaged in various gray-zone activities and military intrusions within the First Island Chain, including areas surrounding the Taiwan Strait. The Beijing authorities have also continued to expand its military armaments on a large scale, using military force to coerce Taiwan and neighboring democratic countries into bowing to the CCP’s political agenda. This clearly shows that the Beijing authorities are the true troublemaker to current regional peace and stability.

　　Third, maintaining peace and stability in and across the two sides of the Taiwan Strait is in the shared interest of the international community. The ROC is a responsible country in the Indo-Pacific region and will continue to cooperate with all freedom- and democracy-loving countries, including the US, to jointly counter the CCP’s gray-zone conflicts, cognitive warfare, and other actions that threaten regional peace and stability, striving to maintain the stability and prosperity of the First Island Chain and the Indo-Pacific region.

　　Deputy Minister Shen underscored that the CCP’s long-standing “One China” narrative is a pretext aimed at changing the status quo. The existence of the ROC cannot be denied, and freedom and democracy are the core values of Taiwanese society. In the face of the CCP’s ambitions toward Taiwan, the government will uphold the “Four Commitments,” continue to strengthen cooperation with Indo-Pacific partners such as the US and Japan, and deepen national defense autonomy, utilizing its own strength as the foundation for maintaining the status quo and safeguarding peace. Deputy Minister Shen called on the people of Taiwan, regardless of party affiliation, to refrain from echoing the CCP’s erroneous narratives that harm Taiwan’s national interests, and to stand united in defending the sovereignty of the ROC and the free and democratic way of life.

• MAC Deputy Minister Shen Emphasizes That the CCP Is the Root Cause of Disruption to the Status Quo and Peace and Stability in the Taiwan Strait.pdf
• MAC Deputy Minister Shen Emphasizes That the CCP Is the Root Cause of Disruption to the Status Quo and Peace and Stability in the Taiwan Strait (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 026

May 14, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) today (May 14) responded to the erroneous remarks regarding Taiwan made by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) leader at the United States (US)-China summit. The MAC emphasized that the Republic of China (ROC) is a sovereign, independent state, a responsible party committed to maintaining peace across the Taiwan Strait, and a pivotal force contributing to global economic prosperity. It is an objective fact, and indeed the true status quo in the Taiwan Strait, that the ROC and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) are not subordinate to each other. 

　　The MAC pointed out that the People’s Liberation Army’s persistent and ongoing gray-zone coercion and military harassment of various forms against Taiwan across the First Island Chain and areas surrounding the Taiwan Strait constitute the greatest risk to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the broader region. Taiwan will continue to bolster its defense capabilities and resilience for effective deterrence, while working closely with the US and other like-minded partners to jointly safeguard peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and maintain a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

　　The MAC reiterated that the government’s cross-Strait policy position remains steady and consistent. The government will uphold the “Four Commitments,” neither yield nor provoke, and remain committed to maintaining the status quo. The MAC calls on the CCP authorities to face the reality across the Taiwan Strait, abandon political preconditions, cease its hybrid pressure against Taiwan, and pragmatically improve cross-Strait relations by engaging in communication and dialogue with Taiwan’s democratically elected government to resolve differences.

Press Contact: Ms. Chen

Phone: +886 2 23975589 ext. 7010

• MAC Press Release No.026.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.026 (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 025

May 12, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) stated that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) summoned certain Taiwanese media outlets to Beijing for indoctrination and incited them to “jointly expose Taiwan independence separatist activities.” In essence, this amounts to a demand for Taiwanese media to cooperate with the CCP’s transnational repression against Taiwan, employing the coercive tactic of “using Taiwanese to control Taiwanese” to suppress the freedoms of the people of Taiwan.

　　The MAC stated that any participating Taiwanese media outlets acting as “local collaborators” to assist the CCP in punishing pro-Taiwan independence individuals or entities—such as by complying with CCP directives to abuse press freedom to accuse specific individuals of being Taiwan independence separatists, providing Taiwanese citizens’ personal data, or disseminating bounty notices—may violate Taiwan’s Anti-Infiltration Act, National Security Act, National Intelligence Service Law, and Criminal Code, facing a maximum penalty of seven or more years in prison.

　　The MAC emphasized that while the government supports “healthy and orderly” cross-Strait exchanges, media outlets should uphold professional journalistic ethics, as well as parity and dignity, and must not become accomplices in the CCP’s transnational repression or threats to the safety of Taiwanese citizens. Government agencies will, in accordance with the law, strictly investigate and prosecute any local collaborators who cooperate with unlawful CCP infiltration or attempt to undermine Taiwan’s democracy, and no leniency will be granted.

Press Contact: Ms. Wu

Phone: +886 2 23975589 ext. 7024

• MAC Press Release No.025.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.025 (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 024

May 8, 2026

　　Relevant government agencies have repeatedly explained and clarified the procedures for conducting routine institutionalized checks of military personnel, civil service, and education personnel. In response to inaccurate reporting by the United Daily News (UDN) today (May 8), the Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) once again clarifies as follows:

I. Routine institutionalized checks for military, civil service, and education personnel apply only to newly appointed or transferred personnel. The UDN reported that the Ministry of Civil Service issued a letter to government agencies nationwide at the end of last year requiring military, civil service, and education personnel to submit signed declarations by the end of May and November each year. This report is inaccurate. The procedures governing routine institutionalized checks are already clearly prescribed: such checks are required only when military, civil service, and education personnel undergo changes in position (such as new appointments or transfers). The vast majority of personnel are not required to submit declarations, and there is absolutely no “blanket review”.

II. The Directorate-General of Personnel Administration has not required government agencies to complete checks of all personnel by the end of May this year (2026). Claims that all personnel must undergo checks every six months are false. Not all personnel in every agency are subject to such checks. In its April 22 circular this year, the Directorate-General of Personnel Administration once again reminded employing agencies that routine institutionalized checks apply only to personnel who are newly appointed or transferred and therefore, fall within the designated scope of review. To align with the timelines for the Senior and Junior Civil Service Examinations and the Special Examination for Local Government Civil Servants, agencies are to process relevant cases on a semiannual basis, using the reporting dates of such personnel as the reference point, with implementation status to be reported by the end of May and the end of November each year. This is an internal personnel administration procedure and has no bearing on the vast majority of military, civil service, and education personnel. Media claims that all personnel must undergo checks every six months are a distortion of the facts and constitute false information.

III. Checks on military, civil service, and education personnel conducted through signed declarations are grounded in law and by no means constitute a case of administrative orders overriding the law. Article 9-1 of the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area (the Cross-Strait Act) and other relevant laws and regulations clearly provide that Taiwanese citizens who hold status as mainland China residents will lose their status as people of the Taiwan Area, along with eligibility to serve as volunteer military service personnel, civil servants, or education personnel. In addition, Article 4 and Article 28 of the Civil Service Employment Act, Article 3 of the Enforcement Rules of the Civil Service Employment Act, Article 3 of the Act Governing the Appointment of Educators, Article 5 of the National Defense Act, Article 6 of the Judges Act, and other relevant laws and regulations expressly stipulate that, prior to appointment, agencies must conduct checks to confirm whether prospective personnel meet the required qualifications. These include not holding dual status across the Taiwan Strait, not holding dual nationality, having no specified criminal records, and not having been subject to relevant disciplinary sanctions. If the individuals concerned do not cooperate with such checks, employing agencies cannot determine whether they meet the statutory requirements and appointment qualifications, and therefore cannot proceed with subsequent qualification review, hiring, contract renewal, or reappointment procedures. The government’s implementation of routine institutionalized checks is carried out in accordance with the law. There is absolutely no situation, as inaccurately alleged in media reports, in which administrative orders override the law. Military, civil service, and education personnel who cooperate with such checks are acting in accordance with the law, contributing to national security, and helping strengthen public trust in the civil service system.

IV. The position remains unchanged that individuals unwilling to cooperate during the 2025 special review project will not be subject to any adverse consequences. During the special review project, agencies would only compile a list of individuals unwilling to cooperate, and no disciplinary action would be imposed. The UDN deliberately blurred the distinction between the Directorate-General of Personnel Administration’s March 2025 response, which stated that “failure to submit a signed declaration during the special review project would not result in any adverse consequences,” and the government’s  routine institutionalized checks, thereby intentionally fueling public opposition to government policy. The MAC deeply regrets this.

Press Contact: Mr. Wu

Phone: +886 2 23975589 ext. 7003

• MAC Press Release No.024.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.024 (Chinese).pdf

News Reference Material
May 8, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) has compiled and reviewed analysis from scholars and experts and issued a written report on the situation in mainland China for the first quarter of 2026. The key points are summarized as follows:

(1) Internal Situation

　　On the political front, the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) Government Work Report delivered during the “Two Sessions” acknowledged the internal and external difficulties and challenges facing mainland China. It also set out this year’s major targets, including GDP growth of around 4.5% to 5%, a surveyed urban unemployment rate of around 5.5%, and a consumer price index increase of around 2%. The outline of the “15th Five-Year Plan” was also approved, calling for efforts to develop a modern industrial system, accelerate high-level sci-tech self-reliance, and build a strong domestic market. While attending deliberations with delegations during the “Two Sessions,” Xi Jinping called for strengthening economic resilience and seizing the strategic high ground of science and technology. He also warned that military personnel must not “harbor divided loyalties” toward the Party. The CCP passed the “Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law” to strengthen linguistic and cultural assimilation and further forge a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation, raising concerns that the law could become a tool of transnational repression. In addition, the CCP Central Committee launched a Party-wide study and education campaign to promote a correct view of political achievements and advance anti-corruption work.

　　On the economic front, mainland China’s GDP grew by 5.0% in the first quarter of 2026. In the meantime, foreign direct investment (FDI) fell by 5.7% year-on-year, real estate development investment declined by 11.2%, housing prices continued to fall, commodity prices remained weak, and youth unemployment rate stayed in the double digits. International organizations forecast mainland China’s economic growth rate will average 4.5% this year. 

　　On the social front, mainland China has established a monitoring system of “preventive repression” while continuing to promote the settlement of its floating population in small and medium-sized cities. At the same time, it has maintained a three-tier social structure of “cadres, urban household registration holders, and non-urban household registration holders.” Amid the continued economic slowdown and mounting social discontent, “Xianzhong-style” retaliatory violence against society has led to numerous indiscriminate attacks, affecting social stability. Recently, international organizations reported that Tibet ranked even lower than North Korea in freedom ratings. Washington also appointed a Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues, drawing criticism from the mainland Chinese side, which claimed the appointment was interfering in its internal affairs.

(2) Foreign Relations

　　Regarding US-China relations, the two sides have continued to maneuver and build leverage ahead of a “Trump-Xi Meeting.” Amid the situation in the Middle East, Trump postponed his originally scheduled March visit to mainland China to May 14-15, while the mainland Chinese side continued to claim that the two sides remained in communication. In April, Trump warned that if mainland China provided military assistance to Iran, the US would impose an additional 50% tariff. He also said he had written to Xi asking him not to provide weapons, while Xi wrote back denying the allegation. The CCP Ministry of Foreign Affairs said reports of military assistance to Iran were “pure fabrication” and stated that China would resolutely take countermeasures if the US imposed additional tariffs. In addition, the US and China held a foreign ministers’ meeting on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference on February 14, followed by the sixth round of economic and trade consultations in Paris in mid-March, during which the two sides discussed establishing a “US-China Board of Trade.”

　　In terms of external affairs, the mainland Chinese side has closely followed developments in the Middle East, calling for an immediate ceasefire, an end to hostilities, and the maintenance of normal passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Xi proposed a four-point proposal for promoting peace and stability in the Middle East, including advancing a security architecture for the Middle East and the Gulf region and upholding the principle of international rule of law. Regarding relations with major powers and neighboring-country, the mainland Chinese side has continued to emphasize strengthened strategic coordination with Russia and has communicated with Moscow on preparations for a “Xi-Putin meeting” later this year. Toward Japan, the CCP has repeatedly criticized Japan for its “new militarism” and, in February, added multiple Japanese companies to its export control list. In addition, mainland China has engaged frequently with ASEAN countries. The Vietnamese leader and the Laos Deputy Prime Minister visited mainland China in succession in April, while Wang Yi also visited Cambodia, Thailand, and Myanmar that same month. Wang Yi also visited North Korea in April and met with leader Kim Jong Un, with the two sides agreeing to maintain close strategic communication.

(3) Military Developments and Regional Security

　　The “Two Sessions” announced a 7% increase in the CCP’s defense budget for 2026. High levels of defense spending are expected to continue throughout the “15th Five-Year Plan” period (2026-2030) to implement the goals for the People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) centenary in 2027 and to advance military modernization. Xi Jinping has carried out a forceful purge of Zhang Youxia’s network, resulting in the unprecedented removal of all PLA Army generals from their posts and the withdrawal of military representatives from the Politburo.

　　During the first three months of this year, the monthly average number of PLA aircraft sorties around Taiwan fell more than half compared with the initial period after President Lai took office. However, the PLA has continued forward deployments and maneuvers along the Taiwan Strait frontline. US intelligence sources indicate that the CCP has no plan to invade Taiwan in 2027 and has no fixed timetable for unification. Nevertheless, the CCP has previously stressed that achieving the unification of Taiwan is essential to completing the goal of “national rejuvenation” by 2049.

(4) Situation in Hong Kong and Macao

　　The Government Work Report delivered during the “Two Sessions” reaffirmed the implementation of “one country, two systems” and “Patriots ruling Hong Kong (Macao).” The “15th Five-Year Plan” emphasized that Hong Kong and Macao are expected not only “integrate into” but also “serve” the overall national development. Through the passage of the “National Development Planning Law” and the “Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law,” Beijing has pushed Hong Kong and Macao to proactively align with national development planning and strengthen patriotic education.

　　On the political front, the Hong Kong government amended the implementation rules for Article 43 of the “Hong Kong National Security Law,” raising public concerns over potential infringements on privacy and property rights. The Hong Kong government stated that the city currently faces four major national security risks, namely external forces, overseas fugitives, local terrorism, and “soft resistance.” It also emphasized that efforts to safeguard national security will not stop. Hong Kong has incorporated content from its national security white paper into its civic education curriculum as it continues to promote national security education. Jimmy Lai’s case has drawn international attention, while the head of an independent bookstore was arrested for selling a biography of Lai. Freedom and human rights in Hong Kong have continued to deteriorate, and Hong Kong continues to be listed as a “partly free.” Public opinion polls also show declining satisfaction with “one country, two systems” and the Hong Kong government. On the economic front, Hong Kong’s economy grew by 3.5% in 2025, marking a slight increase from the previous year.

　　The Macao Legislative Assembly passed the bill on the “Committee for Safeguarding National Security.” Macao’s economy grew by 4.7% in 2025, while employment remained generally stable. Foreign enterprises are “cautiously optimistic” about Macao’s prospects and see areas such as technological innovation and artificial intelligence as key investment priorities. However, talent shortages, regulatory requirements, and operating costs remain underlying concerns.

(5) Taiwan Work

　　On April 10, Xi Jinping met with Kuomintang (KMT) Chairperson Cheng Li-wun, during which Xi put forward “four points” on cross-Strait relations. He emphasized the need to uphold a correct understanding of identity, safeguard the shared homeland, promote exchanges and integration, and work together to achieve the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. On April 12, the Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) announced ten policy measures to promote cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation, covering areas such as youth exchanges, cross-Strait travel, and the export of agricultural and fishery products to mainland China.

　　Wang Huning set out “three tasks” for this year at the Taiwan Work Conference. The Government Work Report delivered during the “Two Sessions” emphasized the position of “combating” Taiwan independence. The Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) Work Report stressed the importance of properly organizing “commemorative events marking the 160^th birth anniversary of Sun Yat-sen.” The National People’s Congress (NPC) Work Report stated that last year’s establishment of “Commemoration Day of Taiwan’s Retrocession” served to inspire national rejuvenation. The Work Reports of the “Two Highs” (the “Supreme People’s Court” and the “Supreme People’s Procuratorate”) listed “punishing Taiwan independence” as work achievement. The outline of the “15th Five-Year Plan” emphasized “promoting unification, promoting integration, anti-independence, and anti-interference,” while the “Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law” stipulates that those who create separatism will be held accountable under the law.

　　The CCP has continued to “punish Taiwan independence” measures while rolling out measures to promote “integration with Taiwan.” Examples include Hong Kong media reports that relatives of Taiwan’s Minister of the Interior had invested in mainland China and made political donations, after which the TAO stated that the matter would be investigated and handled in accordance with the law; Fujian’s release of the first batch of 17 phased landmark achievements in the development of the Demonstration Zone for Integrated Cross-Strait Development; Xiamen’s announcement of the “Xiamen Service Package for First-Time Taiwan Visitors,” which offers multiple preferential treatments to first-time visitors from Taiwan traveling to Xiamen.

　　Regarding cross-Strait exchanges, the KMT-CCP Think Tank Forum was held on February 3. Song Tao proposed five views on strengthening cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation as well as developing cross-Strait relations. At the close of the Forum, the two sides issued a “common opinion” (covering five areas and 15 items). On February 4, Wang Huning met with the KMT delegation and said the “Forum” reflected the shared aspirations of compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait for the “four wants” (peace, development, exchanges, and cooperation).

　　Internationally, at the Munich Security Conference on February 14, Wang Yi criticized the Japanese Prime Minister’s remarks on “a Taiwan contingency,” claiming that they challenged China’s national sovereignty and the post-World War II international order concerning Taiwan’s return. The CCP also pressured three African countries to cancel flight permits, obstructing President Lai’s visit to Taiwan’s diplomatic ally Eswatini.

• MAC 2026 First Quarter Report on the Situation in Mainland China.pdf
• MAC 2026 First Quarter Report on the Situation in Mainland China (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 023

May 6, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) stated today (May 6) that statements issued by certain Taiwanese businesspeople in support of specific political positions constitute the CCP’s use of transnational repression to escalate its manipulation of the “Taiwan independence financiers” list. Such actions coerce Taiwanese businesspeople into making political statements and create a chilling effect among them. The CCP has repeatedly resorted to practices that cross every boundary of civilized conduct, seriously harming the normal investment and business operations of Taiwanese businesspeople, as well as cross-Strait relations. The MAC strongly condemns these actions.

　　The MAC stated that over the past 35 years, Taiwanese businesspeople have made important contributions to mainland China’s economic development and job creation, and their investment and business operations in mainland China should be protected in accordance with the law. To achieve specific political objectives, the CCP has over time established a list of “Taiwan independence financiers,” accused Taiwanese businesspeople of “biting the hand that feeds them,” and further formulated the “22 Guidelines on Punishing Taiwan Independence Separatists” in 2024. Through various irrational and malicious tactics, the CCP has coerced and threatened Taiwanese businesspeople into making political statements, while expanding the scope of its attacks. Its political interference in investment and business operations has continued to increase the risks faced by Taiwanese businesspeople investing and operating in mainland China. Taiwanese businesspeople are therefore reminded to carefully assess their decisions before investing in mainland China, so as to avoid threats to their personal safety or damage to their property.

　　The MAC pointed out that although the CCP publicly claims that “mainland China is the best choice for the vast number of Taiwanese businesspeople and Taiwanese citizens to invest and start businesses,” political and economic risks there are in fact continuing to rise. In terms of political risk, the CCP continues to invoke national security and “punishing Taiwan independence” as pretexts, abuse public authority to arbitrarily exploit personal information for political purposes and deliberately suppress and intimidate. If the mainland Chinese side determines that Taiwanese businesspeople or citizens do not support the CCP’s political position on cross-Strait unification, or are deemed to support “Taiwan independence,” they may be subjected to investigation, transnational repression, or even prosecution for life. Even if they cannot be apprehended, the mainland Chinese authorities may still try them in absentia and encourage the public to report them. Such actions create unpredictable threats to the property and personal safety of Taiwanese businesspeople and Taiwanese citizens.

　　In terms of economic risk, mainland China’s economy has experienced a prolonged slowdown. Its 2026 economic growth target has been set at 4.5% to 5.0%, reflecting the difficulties it faces in internal structural adjustment, as well as deep imbalances marked by weak domestic demand and insufficient consumption. At the same time, mainland China’s investment environment continues to deteriorate amid the US-China tech war and changes in the international landscape. The share of Taiwanese investment in mainland China has also declined year by year. Taiwan’s investment in mainland China as a share of Taiwan’s total outward investment has gradually declined from its 2010 peak, dropping to 7.5% in 2024 and 3.75% in 2025. As of March 2026, the figure had dropped by 28.8% compared with the same period in 2025. In recent years, Taiwanese and foreign businesses have sharply reduced their investments in mainland China, with some even withdrawing altogether. This further reflects a cautious, and in some cases pessimistic, outlook on mainland China’s future economic trajectory. Taking into account mainland China’s economic and political conditions, the government calls on Taiwanese businesspeople to remain alert to the significant political and economic risks of investing and operating in mainland China, and reconsider shifting toward a more diversified overseas investment strategy.

　　The MAC sternly warned the CCP authorities that routinizing political interference in normal economic and trade activities will only push Taiwanese businesspeople toward cross-Strait decoupling and economic disengagement, and will do nothing to support mainland China’s economic development. The mainland Chinese side’s approach is a classic case of harming others without benefiting themselves. Such egregious conduct will only create fear among Taiwanese businesspeople and citizens, ultimately harming mainland China’s own interest as well. The MAC calls on the CCP authorities to pull back from the brink. Repeatedly undermining the healthy development of cross-Strait exchanges will only further set back such exchanges and widen the psychological divide between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait.

Press Contact: Ms. Chen

Phone: +886 9 63 604 576

• MAC Press Release No.023.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.023 (Chinese).pdf

News Reference Material
May 6, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) recently held its 77th Advisory Committee Meeting on the topic of “Observations on the CCP’s Suppression of Religious Freedom and its Religious United Front Work Targeting Taiwan.” Remarks and key points from the discussions by the attending committee members are as follows:

I. The scholars’ introductory report noted that recent trends in mainland China’s religious policy have emphasized the “Sinicization of religion” while tightening administrative control. In recent years, mainland China has issued regulations such as the “Code of Online Conduct for Religious Clergy,” further restricting and suppressing religious freedom. In its religious united front work targeting Taiwan, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has long used a combination of political and economic incentives, along with resources within the religious system, to attract Taiwanese citizens to mainland China for exchanges through activities such as pilgrimages to ancestral temples, tourism, seminars and forums, institutional visits, and cultural performances.

II. Attending committee members emphasized that the CCP is an officially atheist regime where genuine religious freedom does not exist. Ethnic and religious affairs have long been a key priority in the CCP’s stability maintenance efforts, and cross-Strait religious exchanges are in practice used as a tool for the CCP’s united front work targeting Taiwan. The CCP has long used symbolic united front propaganda narratives such as “ancestral temples” and the notion of “shared roots across the Taiwan Strait” to undermine the autonomy of Taiwan’s religious culture.

III. Attending committee members also noted that the CCP uses cross-Strait religious exchange activities to engage with temples and grassroots communities in Taiwan. By leveraging religious communities to build interpersonal networks, it seeks to carry out united front infiltration. The government should respond prudently. When mainland Chinese individuals apply to visit Taiwan for cross-Strait religious exchanges, if their proposed activities fall outside the scope of religious exchange, the government should strengthen review and oversight to ensure cross-Strait religious exchanges are conducted in a healthy and orderly manner.

IV. Some committee members cautioned that the CCP exercises strict surveillance and control over religious activities, and criminalizes such conduct as serious offenses under criminal law. For example, members of Taiwan’s I-Kuan Tao have been arbitrarily detained in mainland China and have yet to return. The CCP has also recently amended regulations governing religious affairs, introducing vaguely worded and highly ambiguous provisions that increase the risks faced by Taiwanese citizens traveling to mainland China for religious exchanges. Committee members recommended that the government enhance risk awareness among Taiwan’s religious groups and all sectors of society.

V. Committee members recommended that Taiwan’s religious groups promote the unique and autonomous values of Taiwan’s religious beliefs, drawing on the country’s freedom of diverse religious beliefs and the well-preserved continuity of its religious rituals and doctrinal systems. Through healthy, orderly, reciprocal, and dignified cross-Strait religious exchanges, Taiwan can demonstrate the diversity and distinctiveness of its religious culture and convey the strengths of its free and pluralistic religious environment.

VI. TThis meeting also invited representatives from the competent authority, the Ministry of the Interior (MOI), to attend and hear the views of scholars and experts. The MOI representative explained that the government attaches great importance to the personal safety of Taiwanese citizens engaging in religious exchanges in mainland China. The government will continue to caution religious groups traveling to mainland China for exchanges to remain alert to relevant risks and familiarize themselves with applicable restrictions under CCP laws and regulations. The MOI also recommends that Taiwanese citizens and religious groups register through the MOI’s “Public Information Platform for Travel to China for Exchange Activities” before traveling to mainland China, so that the government can provide assistance when needed.

*The MAC Advisory Committee Meeting is formed of experts and scholars in related fields. The views and opinions expressed in the meetings or excerpted in this article belong solely to the speakers.

• The 77th MAC Advisory Committee Meeting Highlights and Key Points of Discussion by Committee Members.pdf
• The 77th MAC Advisory Committee Meeting Highlights and Key Points of Discussion by Committee Members (Chinese).pdf

News Reference Material
May 6, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) stated today (May 6) that retired Navy Lieutenant Commander Lu Li-shih recently attended the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) Naval Vessel Open Day Event of the “77th Anniversary of the Establishment of People’s Liberation Army Navy” at the invitation of the Chinese side. During the event, Lu echoed CCP and PLA narratives and participated in related propaganda activities. His actions are suspected of violating Article 33-1 of the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area by engaging in cooperative activities with the CCP’s party, government, or military organizations without prior approval. The MAC stated that it formally issued a letter on May 5, 2026, requesting the Veterans Affairs Council (VAC) to investigate and handle the matter in accordance with the law.

• MAC Requests Veterans Affairs Council to Investigate Alleged Illegal Cooperation between Retired Navy Lieutenant Commander Lu Li-shih and the CCP in Accordance with the Law.pdf
• MAC Requests Veterans Affairs Council to Investigate Alleged Illegal Cooperation between Retired Navy Lieutenant Commander Lu Li-shih and the CCP in Accordance with the Law (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 022

Date: May 5, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) stated today (May 5) that an explosion occurred at the factory of Huasheng Fireworks Manufacturing and Display Co., Ltd. in Liuyang, Changsha City, Hunan Province in mainland China at 4:43 PM on May 4, resulting in 21 deaths and 61 injuries. The government has expressed its condolences to the relevant authorities in mainland China, offering prayers for the deceased to rest in peace, wishes for the injured to recover swiftly, and hopes that losses from the disaster will be minimized and that the recovery efforts proceed smoothly.

　　According to a review by the MAC of the “Online Registration System for Taiwanese Citizens Visiting Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao,” there are currently 14 Taiwanese citizens in Hunan Province. The MAC has requested the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) to ascertain the situation through available channels. At present, there have been no reports of Taiwanese citizens being injured or killed in the area. The government will continue to closely monitor the latest developments in the area and provide timely updates to the public. Taiwanese citizens in the affected area are advised to remain vigilant to ensure personal safety. (SEF Emergency Hotline: +886 2 2533-9995)

Press Contact: Ms. Chan

Tel: +886 2 23975589 ext.7031

• MAC Press Release No.022.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.022 (Chinese).pdf

News Reference Material
April 29, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) offers the following key observations regarding mainland China’s issuance on April 7, 2026 of the “State Council Provisions on Industrial and Supply Chain Security” (hereinafter the “Provisions”):

I. Key points of the “Provisions”: The “Provisions” consist of 18 articles and emphasize “coordinating development and security.” They seek to build mainland China’s own supply chain security system through administrative coordination, risk monitoring, legal countermeasures, and other means. Their key tasks may be summarized into four areas: improving cross-ministerial coordination mechanisms; strengthening dynamic monitoring and emergency management in key sectors; promoting the diversified deployment and digital transformation of industrial and supply chains; and establishing a system of legal countermeasures and penalties for violations, with extraterritorial application.

II. Potential effects and impacts:

(1) The “Provisions” will impact global industrial and supply chains: The “Provisions” will accelerate a shift in the operating logic of global supply chains, moving them away from a previous focus on cost-efficiency and toward a security-first orientation. In industry practice, in order to avoid triggering mainland China’s security investigations and countermeasures, multinational corporations and Taiwanese businesses are expected to be compelled to accelerate the adoption of “dual-track systems for supply chains and IT architecture,” namely an “in China for China” strategy. This compliance-driven segregation mechanism will not only increase corporate IT operation and maintenance costs, but will also further shorten global manufacturing systems.

(2) Mainland China’s countermeasure capabilities against external technology and supply chain blockades: The establishment of a “dynamic list of key sectors” mechanism will provide mainland China with clearer targets for asymmetric retaliation. Mainland China has already carried out trial export controls on rare earths, gallium, germanium, and drone components. Going forward, mainland China is expected to make more active use of industries in which it holds a relatively dominant global position (such as mature-node semiconductors, new energy equipment, and advanced battery materials), to impose export restrictions, delay reviews, or collect special fees from foreign governments or enterprises that cooperate with United States (US) policies.

(3) Mainland China’s domestic capital guidance may trigger the next wave of international trade friction: Once mainland China defines specific supply chain gaps or technology blockades as national security risks, accompanying fiscal subsidies, policy bank credit, and national-level industrial funds are likely to channel more domestic capital into the relevant strategic sectors. A heavy concentration of resources in these sectors could lead to duplicated investment and overcapacity in strategic industries, with the resulting excess capacity inevitably redirected to international markets. This, in turn, may trigger the next wave of international trade friction.

(4) Compliance pressure on foreign-invested enterprises and Taiwanese businesses in mainland China, creating a “compliance sandwich” dilemma: Amid the trend toward dual-track supply chains, foreign investors and Taiwanese businesses deeply rooted in the mainland Chinese market will be among the first to bear the impact. Multinational entities are now caught between US and mainland Chinese control measures, facing a dilemma in which compliance with relevant US prohibitions may constitute a violation of mainland Chinese law, while disregarding those prohibitions may expose them to US sanctions.

(5) Increased personal safety risks for Taiwanese businesspeople in mainland China: In the future, executives responsible for procurement, legal affairs, or compliance may run afoul of the “Provisions” when cooperating with headquarters investigations or conducting production line audits. Supply chain managers, legal officers, and compliance executives who conduct on-site inspections or respond to data requests from overseas headquarters may easily cross the red line of “illegal collection of information,” increasing their risk of detention or exit restrictions.

(6) Data decoupling may weaken the ability of Taiwanese businesses in mainland China to secure orders: If Taiwanese businesses in mainland China are unable to provide “proof of no forced labor” or “supply chain transparency reports” requested by international clients, they may lose international orders. Taiwanese businesses may find it difficult to provide complete supply chain traceability reports to international clients, which could result in the loss of international orders if they fail to pass compliance reviews.

III. Recently, Taiwanese businesses in mainland China have faced the impacts of mainland China’s economic downturn, the US-China tariff war, the US-China tech war, the rise of the red supply chain, and the involution-style competition, all of which have continued to drive up operating costs. According to statistics from the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Taiwanese investment in mainland China as a share of Taiwan’s total outbound investment dropped from 83.8% in 2010 to 7.5% in 2024 and further to 3.75% in 2025. The “Provisions” will impose even greater compliance pressure for Taiwanese businesses and strengthen mainland China’s “countermeasure capabilities against external technology and supply chain blockades.” Taiwanese businesses are therefore reminded to closely monitor the subsequent implementation of the “Provisions.” Businesses can no longer assess operations from a purely commercial perspective. They must make compliance management for political and economic risks a core factor in evaluating investment and operations, and respond prudently to mainland China’s rising economic and political risks.

• Key Observations on Mainland China’s Adoption of the “State Council Provisions on Industrial and Supply Chain Security”.pdf
• Key Observations on Mainland China’s Adoption of the “State Council Provisions on Industrial and Supply Chain Security” (Chinese).pdf

News Reference Material

April 27, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) today (April 27) issued the following clarification to set the record straight in response to reports by the United Daily News and China Times, including “The Rise of Alternative Tours Reduces Group Tour Ban to a Political Declaration,” “Travel Industry Infuriated by Six-Year Group Tour Ban,” “Gray-Zone Operations Weaken Traveler Protection,” and “Alternative Tours to Mainland China Emerge as Government Continues to Bury Its Head in the Sand.”

I. Taiwanese people have traveled to mainland China for many years, and the government has not imposed restrictions on such travel. When Taiwanese citizens traveling in mainland China encounter accidents, natural disasters, or other emergencies, relevant government agencies have always provided necessary and timely assistance through existing cross-Strait contact and coordination mechanisms. After learning on the evening of April 24 that Taiwanese citizens had been involved in an accident while traveling in Gansu, the MAC immediately coordinated with the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF), the Tourism Administration under the Ministry of Transportation and Communications, as well as relevant travel industry operators to actively provide assistance. Every effort was made to help family members travel to mainland China, care for the injured and deceased Taiwanese citizens, and handle the tour group’s subsequent itinerary and other follow-up matters.

II. As the Tourism Administration has already explained publicly, this incident was a simple travel accident. Although the group in question was organized by the travelers themselves together with their relatives and friends, the travel agency handling the trip had taken out travel agency liability insurance as required, including accidental death and accidental medical expense insurance. It had also assigned a tour leader to accompany the group and handle travel-related matters. As such, the fact that this was not a travel agency-organized tour has not affected travelers’ rights or diminished the protections available to them.

III. Regarding whether to lift the “group tour ban” and resume allowing Taiwanese travel agencies to organize group tours to mainland China, the government has repeatedly stated its policy position. Given that travel to mainland China currently remains under an “orange” travel alert, any reopening must be premised on ensuring the personal freedom and travel safety of Taiwanese citizens traveling to mainland China. The main reason the group tour ban cannot be lifted is that the CCP has continued in recent years to amend and expand its national security laws and regulations. It further issued the “22 Guidelines on Punishing Taiwanese Diehard Independence Separatists” on June 21, 2024, and encouraged tip-offs from the public, seriously threatening the personal safety of Taiwanese citizens traveling to mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao. From January 1, 2024 to March 31, 2026, relevant agencies received reports involving a total of 330 Taiwanese citizens who went missing, were detained for questioning, or were suspected of having their personal freedom restricted while in mainland China. This is an increase of 17 people in just one month compared with the precious month’s figure (313). Given the persistently high risks associated with travel to mainland China, the government once again reminds Taiwanese citizens to carefully assess the risks and avoid nonessential travel.

IV. The government has always attached importance to and remained concerned about the safety of Taiwanese citizens traveling in mainland China. It also has mechanisms in place to provide timely assistance in the event of emergencies or accidents. The SEF emergency service hotline (+886-2-25339995) is available to provide contact services. The MAC has also established the “Online Registration System for Taiwanese Citizens Visiting Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao” on its official website, and advises Taiwanese citizens to complete registration in the system before traveling to mainland China. This will allow the government to promptly reach out and provide necessary assistance and services should any sudden or emergency incident occur during their stay in mainland China.

• Travel to Mainland China Remains High Risk for Taiwanese Citizens; Government Stresses That Travel Agency Group Tours Must Not Resume Unless Traveler Safety Is Ensured.pdf
• Travel to Mainland China Remains High Risk for Taiwanese Citizens; Government Stresses That Travel Agency Group Tours Must Not Resume Unless Traveler Safety Is Ensured (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 021

April 25, 2026

I. In connection with the vehicle rollover accident on April 24 involving Taiwanese citizens traveling in mainland China at Ganjia Secret Realm Scenic Area in Xiahe County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, which resulted in casualties, relevant government agencies were immediately apprised of the situation at the earliest opportunity. The government expresses its deepest condolences over the loss of life, wishes the injured a speedy recovery, extends its heartfelt sympathy and concern to the affected families, and will provide full assistance in handling follow-up matters.

II. Upon learning of the incident, the Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) immediately contacted the Lanzhou Taiwanese Business Association through the Straits Exchange Foundation to gain a timely understanding of the situation on the ground. The MAC will provide full assistance to the families in handling follow-up matters.

III. It has been confirmed that the travel agency has secured travel agency liability insurance (including coverage for accidental death and accidental injury medical expenses). The Tourism Administration under the Ministry of Transportation and Communications has requested the travel agency to facilitate travel to mainland China for the families in Taiwan of the injured and deceased travelers, so they may handle follow-up arrangements, including insurance claims and related matters, and to ensure that families receive the necessary support, care, and assistance.

IV. The MAC stated that relevant government agencies have consistently placed great importance on, and remained attentive to, the safety of Taiwanese citizens in mainland China, and have established mechanisms to provide timely assistance in the event of emergencies or accidents. The MAC has set up the “Online Registration System for Taiwanese Citizens Visiting Mainland China” on its official website and advises Taiwanese citizens to register prior to travel. This will enable the government to establish timely contact and provide necessary assistance and services should any emergency or unexpected incident arise during their stay in mainland China.

Press Contact: Ms. Chan

Phone: 0963604579

• MAC Press Release No.021.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.021 (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 020

April 21, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) today (April 21) expressed strong condemnation after the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) authorities pressured relevant countries to abruptly cancel flight permits and obstruct President Lai’s visit to Taiwan’s diplomatic ally, the Kingdom of Eswatini. The MAC emphasized that the Republic of China (ROC) is a sovereign state. Over the years, ROC presidents have visited Eswatini on multiple occasions, and maintaining diplomatic ties is the ROC’s legitimate right. The CCP has no authority to comment on, nor any standing to interfere in, such matters.

　　The MAC pointed out that shortly after the CCP announced its so-called “ten policy measures”, it immediately proceeded to maliciously sabotage President Lai’s scheduled overseas visit. This highlights that Beijing’s “goodwill toward Taiwan is false, while its threats toward Taiwan are real,” and that it is “offering incentives with one hand while suppressing Taiwan with the other.” The public should clearly recognize the CCP’s dual-track approach.

　　The MAC sternly warned the Beijing authorities that the ROC has the right to engage with and develop relations with countries around the world. The CCP’s heavy-handed suppression will not change Taiwan’s determination to engage with the world and participate in the international community. The government will continue to firmly defend national sovereignty and calls on the international community to jointly condemn the CCP’s crude actions and take concrete action to support Taiwan’s right to engage and interact with other countries.

Press Contact: Ms. Wu

Phone: +886 2 23975589 ext. 7024

• MAC Press Release No.020.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.020 (Chinese).pdf

News Reference Material
April 21, 2026

　　Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung attended a symposium today (April 21) titled “From the ‘Xi-Cheng Meeting’ to a Prospective ‘Trump-Xi Meeting’: Examining the CCP’s Taiwan Policy.” He stated that the CCP’s “ten measures to promote cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation” are political tools aimed at dividing Taiwan and “promoting unification and integration.” Imposing political preconditions, in the absence of agreements with Taiwan’s government and institutional safeguards, will only draw Taiwan’s relevant industries into the CCP’s united front trap. Deputy Minister Shen once again called on the CCP to recognize that national sovereignty as well as freedom and democracy are not matters for bargaining, and that any cross-Strait matter involving the exercise of public authority should be addressed directly with our democratically elected government through dialogue and consultation. The government will also strengthen guidance and communication with relevant industries to help them recognize the CCP’s political intent and avoid once again falling victim to its “lure-trap-kill” tactic.

　　Deputy Minister Shen warned that the CCP has repackaged its so-called “ten measures to promote cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation” as a “gift package” for the “Xi-Cheng Meeting,” the contents of which consist largely of past cross-Strait economic, trade, and exchange measures that Beijing previously unilaterally terminated for political reasons. Such practices, which involve engaging first with specific political parties and then announcing Taiwan-related policies under political preconditions that undermine national sovereignty, have become all too familiar. By imposing the political preconditions of the “1992 Consensus” and “opposition to Taiwan independence” on these measures, the CCP has once again exposed the “politicized,” “instrumentalized,” and “weaponized” nature of its Taiwan policy. Experiences show that the CCP’s objective is to use a pattern of “opening and suspending measures at will” and “applying differential treatment” to carry out united front manipulation and divide Taiwan, while targeting certain industries with its “lure-trap-kill” tactics and even turning such measures into “election interference” tools during election periods. This approach undermines national sovereignty and expose specific industries to renewed long-term risk of falling into the same trap again.

　　Deputy Minister Shen pointed out that mainland China’s economy has continued to decline in recent years, with both Taiwanese businesses and foreign investors withdrawing. Foreign direct investment (FDI) in China, for instance, has been in continuous decline since 2023, nearly halving in scale. Both Taiwanese and foreign businesses are accelerating their exit from the Chinese market. On the other hand, Taiwan is stepping up its integration with global markets and strengthening its global presence, presenting impressive results in recent years. With China’s economy continuing to deteriorate, there is simply no reason for Taiwan to go back to the irreversible path of relying on the Chinese market. The CCP attempts to leverage a specific political party and makes exchanges conditional on political terms that undermine national sovereignty, with the aim of “using business to pressure politics” and accelerating the process of “integrating Taiwan” and “unification.”

　　Deputy Minister Shen stated that, the government’s position on any cross-Strait matter involving the exercise of public authority has remained unchanged: it rejects political preconditions and calls for direct negotiations based on the principle of parity with our democratically elected government. The core reason cross-Strait exchanges have not been able to move toward each other lies precisely in the CCP’s repeated “open-and-suspend” approach, its refusal to face the government of the Republic of China (ROC), and its willingness to engage only with specific political parties under specific political preconditions. In carrying out its responsibility to safeguard the country’s overall best interests, the government must exercise strict oversight to prevent cross-Strait exchanges from once again falling into a trap subject to the CCP’s arbitrary manipulation. The government also hopes that businesses will clearly recognize the nature and risks of the CCP’s policy toward Taiwan, stand with the government, and jointly urge the other side of the Taiwan Strait to return to the existing cross-Strait interaction mechanisms and engage in pragmatic negotiations with our democratically elected government on matters involving the exercise of public authority. Only then can the interests of industry, farmers, and fishermen, along with healthy and orderly cross-Strait exchanges, be genuinely protected.

　　Deputy Minister Shen reiterated that issues concerning the Taiwan Strait bear directly on geopolitics and global economic prosperity. They are by no means, as the CCP claims, internal affairs, nor are they some so-called “family matter of the Chinese.” Support for Taiwan from the international community and like-minded allies should not be mischaracterized as so-called “external interference.” The notion of peace cannot come at the expense of national sovereignty and freedom and democracy, but must instead be defended through strength. The government will continue to actively communicate with the international community, convey Taiwan’s resolution in strengthening its self-defense capabilities, and uphold cooperation with like-minded democratic allies in order to ensure national sovereignty and maintain the stable status quo across the Taiwan Strait.

• Sovereignty and Democracy Are Not for Trade; MAC Urges CCP to End United Front Operations and That Resuming Normalized Cross-Strait Exchanges Is the True Way to Work Toward Each Other.pdf
• Sovereignty and Democracy Are Not for Trade; MAC Urges CCP to End United Front Operations and That Resuming Normalized Cross-Strait Exchanges Is the True Way to Work Toward Each Other (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 019

April 20, 2026

　　In response to the six key points raised at a press conference held today (April 20) by the General Chamber of Commerce of the Republic of China (ROCCOC) on “Industry Views on mainland China’s Recent Taiwan-Benefiting Policy Measures,” the government stated that it attaches great importance to and has carefully considered the views of the business community. At the same time, it calls on industry to act in line with overall national interests and mainstream public opinion, and to work with the government to promote healthy and orderly cross-Strait exchanges.

I. The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) reiterated that the government supports healthy and orderly cross-Strait exchanges. However, no exchange measures should be subject to political preconditions, let alone become bargaining chips in the political transactions of any particular party. The ten Taiwan-related measures announced by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) are not only political arrangements privately coordinated between the CCP and the Kuomintang (KMT), but many of them are also premised on the “1992 Consensus” and “opposition to Taiwan independence.” This clearly entails compromises and concessions on sovereignty, and may even enable the CCP to extend its public authority into Taiwan, sow internal divisions within our society, and carry out united front infiltration aimed at influencing elections, all of which undoubtedly run counter to overall national interests and mainstream public opinion. The MAC believes that, if the vast majority of businesses clearly recognize the nature of these ten measures and their potential risks, they will adopt a prudent approach and support the government’s position.

II. The government has a clear position on practical issues covered by these ten measures, such as the normalization of direct cross-Strait passenger flights and the resumption of individual travel to Taiwan by residents of Fujian and Shanghai. For all matters involving the exercise of public authority, the government continues to conduct reviews in a pragmatic manner. With regard to direct passenger flights, 15 scheduled routes and 13 charter flight destinations have already been opened. However, the utilization rate of allocated flight traffic rights is only slightly above 70%, while the passenger load factor of Taiwanese carriers is just over 60%. To date, no applications for charter flights have been submitted. Under such circumstances, it is unrealistic to fully reopen direct passenger air services. Regarding mainland Chinese visitors to Taiwan, whether for group tours or individual travel, the government has repeatedly emphasized that, in order to ensure healthy and orderly tourism exchanges and avoid a repeat of past disruptions, in which the CCP authorities could suspend such arrangements at will, thereby disrupting the tourism market and causing significant losses to operators, consultations should first be conducted between the two designated tourism associations to make appropriate arrangements. This is also part of the government’s responsibility to exercise proper oversight. 

III. As for exports of agricultural and fishery products to China, the docking of distant-water fishing vessels at Chinese facilities, registration issues for Taiwanese food production companies in China, and market access for Taiwan film and television productions, these have all been subject to repeated political manipulation by the CCP, which has arbitrarily “opened and suspended” such measures on fabricated grounds. The ROCCOC’s call for the mainland side to promptly publish detailed information on relevant measures and to treat all businesses equally, rather than discriminating based on political affiliation, does indeed go to the heart of the problem. However, when the CCP authorities have placed these measures within a framework of CCP-KMT cooperation and attached political preconditions, is it realistic to expect that they would abandon political manipulation and provide equal access to all businesses regardless of political affiliation? The answer is self-evident.

IV. The government understands that the ROCCOC and various industry associations, in fulfilling their responsibilities, are reflecting the views of some businesses. However, it is also hoped that the business community will recognize that the government’s duty is to safeguard the nation’s best interests and that it will never stand in opposition to industry or the public. Going forward, the MAC and relevant agencies will continue to strengthen communication with the business community and further promote public-private cooperation. Through coordinated action between public and private sectors, efforts will be made to press the CCP to remove its political preconditions and various political considerations and arrangements, return to existing cross-Strait interaction mechanisms, and engage in pragmatic consultations with the government. Only in this way can healthy, orderly, and sustainable cross-Strait exchanges be ensured.

Press Contact: Ms. Chan

Phone: +886 2 23975589 ext. 7031

• MAC Press Release No.019 .pdf
• MAC Press Release No.019 (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 018

April 19, 2026

I. In response to the ten Taiwan-related measures announced by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) following the “Xi-Cheng Meeting,” which certain political figures have characterized as a “gift-package” for Taiwan, The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) reiterates that these measures seek to bypass governmental authority and are, in essence, a political transaction privately arranged between the Kuomintang (KMT) and the CCP. They cannot genuinely safeguard the interests of industry or the rights and well-being of the public. In particular, the CCP’s requirement that Taiwan’s agricultural and fishery products exports to mainland China be conditioned on acceptance of the “1992 Consensus” and “opposition to Taiwan independence” as political preconditions constitute nothing less than an attempt to carry out “united front division” against Taiwan. By applying differential treatment to businesses and local governments across counties and cities in Taiwan, the CCP seeks to conduct political manipulation and influence domestic elections.

II. The government supports healthy and orderly cross-Strait exchanges. However, no exchange measure should be subject to political preconditions, much less become a bargaining chip in any particular political party’s political dealings. Given that the CCP’s ten measures have “politicized,” “instrumentalized,” and “weaponized” what should otherwise be ordinary economic and trade exchanges, and considering that most of these measures have in the past been repeatedly opened and suspended at will through political manipulation and unfounded pretexts, they have brought about a high degree of uncertainty and caused significant harm to the interests of Taiwan’s industries, farmers, and fishermen. Under these circumstances, the government has a clear responsibility to ensure that Taiwan’s economy and industries are no longer exposed to structural risks, and to prevent cross-Strait economic and trade measures from being used as tools for united front division, political manipulation, and election interference.

III. The MAC also once again reminds the public that, in recent years, mainland China’s economy has faced severe structural imbalances and persistent downside risks, prompting many Taiwanese businesses and foreign investors to withdraw from mainland China. To address its economic difficulties and massive industrial overcapacity, the CCP authorities have resorted to dumping low-priced goods overseas and engaging in various forms of economic coercion against other countries. China’s economy has long been more fragile than it appears, with problems such as “lying flat” and “budget travel” fully exposing its economic predicament. Yet the CCP authorities continue to engage in conditioned political transactions with the KMT by offering measures such as opening mainland China to Taiwan’s agricultural and fishery exports and allowing mainland Chinese tourists to visit Taiwan. Through these measures, they seek to “leverage business interests to pressure the government,” entice businesses with economic incentives, sow divisions within Taiwan, extend their political influence in Taiwan, and accelerate the processes of “integrating Taiwan” and “advancing unification.” The MAC solemnly reminds the public that the mainland Chinese side’s “gift package” reflects precisely these harsh economic realities and political manipulation as described above. Taiwanese citizens and businesses should not be deceived again, nor allow themselves to become tools manipulated by the CCP and its collaborators in Taiwan.

IV. The MAC have also noticed that, in recent days, the CCP authorities have continued to exert pressure through various channels and intermediaries on Taiwanese businesses, organizations, and individuals into publicly stating their positions. Many businesses and organizations have reported being subjected to such pressure and deeply troubled by these actions. For a long time, the CCP has used economic interests to coerce and pressure Taiwanese businesses, while its united front tactics of “leveraging business interests to pressure the government” have remained unrelenting. The government has repeatedly emphasized that it will take the legitimate concerns and interests of businesses seriously and address them appropriately. At the same time, it calls on all sectors to act with the overall economic and industrial interests in mind, refrain from echoing the CCP’s narrative, and refuse to be used as tools to pressure the government. Only when industry and government stand together in jointly calling on and demanding the mainland side to cease its political manipulation, recognize the existence of our public authority, and engage in negotiations with our government as soon as possible, can the interests of industries, farmers, and fishermen truly be protected, and healthy and orderly cross-Strait exchanges be ensured.

Press Contact: Ms. Chan

Phone: +886 963 604 579

• MAC Press Release No.018.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.018 (Chinese).pdf

News Reference Material
April 17, 2026

　　Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung attended a symposium today (April 17) titled “The Impact of the Cheng-Xi Meeting on Taiwan’s Local Elections and the Changing Balance between Unification and Independence Forces,” hosted by the Tunghai University’s Center for Mainland China and Regional Development Research. He emphasized that the ten policy measures to promote cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation announced by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) following the “Xi-Cheng Meeting” are heavily conditioned on the political premises of “promoting unification and integration.” In essence, they are simply “old wine in an old bottle,” showing that the CCP has already “exhausted all tricks.”

　　Deputy Minister Shen pointed out that official negotiation mechanisms already exist for matters such as exports of agricultural and fishery products to mainland China, the resumption of independent travel by tourists, and cross-Strait flight routes and services. It has consistently been the CCP that unilaterally suspended these exchanges for political reasons or deliberately failed to implement the relevant agreements. After first undermining cross-Strait exchanges and eroding mutual trust, the CCP is now repackaging old policies as a so-called gesture of goodwill, when in fact it is nothing more than a cynical deception. Moreover, on the issue of Taiwan’s agricultural and fishery exports to mainland China, Beijing has even insisted that any communication or negotiation must be premised on recognition of the “1992 Consensus” and opposition to “Taiwan independence.” In reality however, the government has long stressed that both sides are WTO members, and that cross-Strait trade disputes should be addressed through official negotiations under WTO mechanisms and existing agreements. The CCP’s latest move once again underscores that it is merely treating Taiwan’s agricultural and fishery products as tools of united front work, with any reopening made contingent on Taiwan’s acceptance of CCP’s political preconditions. This approach of Taiwan policy, under which Beijing can repeatedly “open and suspend at will,” is no different from its past “lure-trap-kill” tactics toward Taiwan’s agricultural and fishery sectors. Far from “benefiting Taiwan,” it is much more accurately described as “harming Taiwan.”

　　Deputy Minister Shen stressed that the CCP has long pursued a dual-track approach toward Taiwan, combining peace overtures with coercion. During Cheng Li-wun’s visit to mainland China, CCP military aircraft and vessels continued to harass Taiwan, and Beijing even carried out control measures and live-fire drills in the East China Sea and Yellow Sea in an unmistakeable display of intimidation. The CCP’s deliberate release of these ten Taiwan policy measures after the “Xi-Cheng Meeting,” under the banner of promoting peace and benefiting Taiwan, is in fact aimed at using the opposition party as a pawn to further its united front agenda and sow division in Taiwan. Deputy Minister Shen further stated that the CCP insists these Taiwan-related policy measures can only be implemented under the political preconditions of the “1992 Consensus” and opposition to “Taiwan independence.” Yet the “1992 Consensus” as defined by the CCP, grounded in the “one China principle” and “one country, two systems,” has long been rejected by the overwhelming majority of people in Taiwan. This so-called “gift package” unveiled through the “Xi-Cheng Meeting” is still intended to force the “1992 Consensus” onto Taiwan. If accepted naively and uncritically, it will ultimately erode the sovereignty of the Republic of China (ROC) and undermine the Taiwanese people’s free and democratic way of life.

　　Deputy Minister Shen stated that most of the policy measures announced this time could have been addressed through existing cross-Strait negotiation mechanisms. If Beijing is truly acting in good faith, it should engage in direct dialogue and negotiations with Taiwan’s democratically elected government through normal channels and without any political preconditions, rather than using the opposition party to speak on its behalf. Deputy Minister Shen concluded with the following appeals:

　　First, this approach of Taiwan policy, in which the CCP “imposes political preconditions” and “repeatedly opens and suspends measures at will,” is driven entirely by political calculations and does nothing to contribute to the positive development of cross-Strait relations. The CCP is urged to face the reality of the ROC’s existence and engage directly in dialogue and negotiation with Taiwan’s democratically elected government on relevant policies.

　　Second, the CCP’s decision to engage only with specific political parties is an attempt to divide Taiwanese society, as well as its tactic to advance united front operations and sow division in Taiwan. Opposition parties are urged to clearly recognize the CCP’s ambition to eliminate the ROC and annex Taiwan, not to serve as conduits for the CCP’s united front efforts, and to work with the government to safeguard national sovereignty and security.

• MAC Says the CCP’s Ten Taiwan Policy Measures Are “Old Wine in an Old Bottle,” Urges CCP to Engage in Dialogue and Negotiations with Taiwan’s Democratically Elected Government If It Truly Acts in Good Faith.pdf
• MAC Says the CCP’s Ten Taiwan Policy Measures Are “Old Wine in an Old Bottle,” Urges CCP to Engage in Dialogue and Negotiations with Taiwan’s Democratically Elected Government If It Truly Acts in Good Faith (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 017

April 16, 2026

I. The government supports healthy and orderly cross-Strait exchanges. However, such exchanges should not be subject to political preconditions, much less serve as bargaining chips in any particular party’s political transactions.

II. Following the April 10 “KMT-CCP Talks” in Beijing, the CCP announced on April 12 the “ten measures to promote cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation,” which included the “full resumption of direct cross-Strait passenger flights.” The CCP bypassed our government in matters involving the exercise of public authority and made the announcement unilaterally, fully exposing the political nature of these measures as a transaction between the CCP and the KMT. 

III. On April 7, the mainland Chinese side sent a letter through the civil aviation liaison channel urging our side to fully resume cross-Strait passenger flight services. The timing clearly coincided with the “KMT-CCP Talks” and the CCP’s announcement of the ten Taiwan-related measures, revealing a clear attempt to pressure our government into exercising public authority to facilitate the implementation of the outcomes of the “KMT-CCP Talks.”

IV. For political and united front considerations, the mainland Chinese side has repeatedly sent letters calling for the full resumption of direct cross-Strait passenger flights. Since the pandemic, however, the government has already resumed direct cross-Strait passenger flights in a gradual and orderly manner, taking into account cross-Strait interactions and actual civil aviation demand. To date, there are already 15 regular scheduled flight destinations and 13 charter flight destinations. Based on current utilization rates and airlines’ applications for charter flights, the existing destinations and transport capacity are already sufficient to meet demand, and there is no pressing need to immediately open additional destinations.

V. Going forward, the government will continue to uphold its consistent policy principles and pragmatic approach, conduct regular reviews of direct passenger flights and relevant operations, and make timely adjustments in light of changes in cross-Strait interactions and actual demand, without being influenced by the CCP’s united front tactics or political manipulation.

Press Contact: Mr. Wu

Phone: +886 2 23975589 ext. 7003

• MAC Press Release No.017.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.017 (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 016

April 12, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) today (April 12) stated the following positions in response to the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) unilateral announcement of the so-called “ten measures to promote cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation”:

I. Beijing has bypassed Taiwan’s democratically elected government, reduced cross-Strait relations to “KMT-CCP party-to-party relations,” and placed them within a “one China framework.” It has imposed the so-called “1992 Consensus” and “opposition to Taiwan independence” as political preconditions for cross-Strait engagement, with the goal of using “integration to advance unification.” It has also deliberately applied “differential treatment” toward Taiwan and carried out divisive united front operations. The “Xi-Cheng Meeting” and the so-called “ten measures to promote cross-Strait exchanges and cooperation” are no different from the CCP’s past so-called “Taiwan-benefiting measures” that cannot withstand scrutiny and amount to nothing more than a political transaction between the CCP and the KMT, with the costs ultimately borne by the public. The government’s position is clear. To safeguard national and public interests, any cross-Strait matter involving the exercise of public authority must be addressed through negotiations between the respective governments on the basis of parity and dignity in order to be valid and to genuinely protect the rights, interests, and well-being of the people. Any “regularized communication mechanisms” or “exchange platforms” established by the CCP and the KMT that bypass state authority must not contravene relevant laws and regulations.

II. Historical experience has proven that Beijing’s so-called economic and trade “concessions” are often withdrawn or suspended unilaterally on various pretexts, causing significant losses to Taiwan’s farmers, fishermen, and industries. These so-called “unilateral concessions” are merely sugar-coated poison packaged as “gift bundles.” What the people of Taiwan have experienced is that such measures are in fact instruments of “economic coercion,” exposing the true pattern of “lure-trap-kill” that harms national and industrial interests. The CCP has weaponized, instrumentalized, and politicized cross-Strait exchanges. When policy openings are subject to “uncertainty” of possible suspension at any time, and when policy benefits are extended “selectively” only to specific groups, the government has a responsibility to ensure that Taiwan’s economy and industries are no longer exposed to such unwarranted risks, and to prevent these mechanisms from being used as tools for the CCP’s political united front infiltration and election interference. The measures announced this time by the mainland Chinese side, including those related to agricultural and fishery product imports, food enterprise registration, and the resumption of certain passenger flight routes and independent travel by tourists to Taiwan, have been repeatedly opened and then suspended over the years. Their reintroduction now simply repeats the same pattern, offering no institutional guarantees for Taiwan’s industries, farmers, fishermen, or the public’s rights and interests, while carrying significant risks.

III. With respect to all matters involving national security and the exercise of public authority, Beijing should not use various political pretexts to evade engaging in consultations with Taiwan’s government. The CCP has ostensibly claimed that it seeks to restore the normalization of cross-Strait direct passenger flights and promote “water, electricity, gas, and bridge links” for Kinmen and Matsu, and has even floated proposals such as “supporting Kinmen’s shared use of Xiamen’s new airport.” However, these issues involve cross-border infrastructure, aviation safety, customs clearance and quarantine procedures, and the movement of people, all of which concern core national security and the exercise of governmental authority. As is the standard practice worldwide, such matters require assessment and participation of the competent authorities, as well as formal negotiations between the two governments to arrive at proper arrangements.

IV. The government supports the healthy and orderly cross-Strait exchanges; under the core objective of safeguarding national and public interests, no exchange measures should be subject to political preconditions or serve political purposes, much less be used as bargaining chips in any particular party’s political transactions. Opposition parties in particular should refrain from facilitating such practices, especially given that over the past several years, the CCP authorities’ so-called “Taiwan-benefiting measures” have ultimately become leverage for Beijing’s economic coercion against Taiwan, as the Taiwanese public has repeatedly experienced. Opposition parties therefore have a responsibility to work with the government and should not allow such a situation to happen again. We once again call on the Beijing authorities to recognize the objective fact that neither side of the Taiwan Strait is subordinate to the other, to squarely face the reality of the Republic of China’s existence, and to promptly resume regularized communication and dialogue with our democratically elected and legitimate government. This is the only correct path toward promoting peace across the Taiwan Strait and advancing the well-being of the people.

Press Contact: Ms. Lin

Phone: +886 9 63 604 572

• MAC Press Release No.016.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.016 (Chinese).pdf

News Reference Material
April 11, 2026

　　Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung attended a symposium today (April 11) titled “Peace for Whom? A Comprehensive Review of the ‘Xi-Cheng Meeting’ Controversy,” where he commented on Kuomintang (KMT) Chair Cheng Li-wun’s visit to mainland China. Deputy Minister Shen first stated that it was deeply regrettable that Chair Cheng did little to reflect mainstream public opinion in Taiwan during her visit. Specifically, she did not convey the Taiwanese public’s opposition to military aircraft and vessels harassing and encircling Taiwan, opposition to Beijing’s suppression of Taiwan in the international arena, opposition to mainland China’s infiltration, sabotage, and election interference targeting Taiwan’s democratic society, or the growing concern over increasingly severe transnational repression targeting the people of Taiwan. Instead, she aligned with the CCP in advancing narratives that run counter to Taiwan’s mainstream public opinion.

　　Deputy Minister Shen pointed out that Chair Cheng aligned herself with the CCP in jointly advocating the “1992 Consensus” and “opposition to Taiwan independence.” In reality, the CCP’s version of the “1992 Consensus” is the “one country, two systems” framework, which leaves no room for the existence of the Republic of China (ROC). It is an objective fact that at present, neither the ROC nor the People’s Republic of China (PRC) is subordinate to the other, and the PRC has never ruled Taiwan for even a single day. Multiple public opinion surveys have consistently shown that opposition to the “1992 Consensus,” along with support for the position that neither side of the Taiwan Strait is subordinate to the other, reflect the mainstream public opinion in Taiwan. Chair Cheng should not disregard Taiwan’s mainstream public opinion by instead aligning herself with the CCP’s “one China” narrative.

　　With regard to the cross-Strait and international situation, Deputy Minister Shen emphasized that peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are matters of global concern. The Taiwan Strait issue is by no means an internal matter as claimed by the CCP, nor is it the case, as Chair Cheng asserted, that “the Taiwan Strait will not become a chessboard for external interference.” At a time when bipartisan delegations of US senators and representatives have recently visited Taiwan, and when the European Parliament and democratic countries across Europe have come to Taiwan to express their support, opposition parties at home have instead delayed review of the defense procurement budget in the legislature, while Chair Cheng has chosen to travel to mainland China and echo the CCP’s “pawn” narrative. To ignore the CCP’s military aircraft and vessels harassing Taiwan and the military exercises encircling Taiwan that undermine regional stability, is what truly amounts to willingly becoming a “pawn” in the CCP’s strategy of “seeking unification through military coercion.”

　　Deputy Minister Shen stated that Chair Cheng’s remarks during the “Xi-Cheng Meeting” were little more than flattery toward Xi Jinping. She not only adopted CCP terminology in promoting the “great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation,” but also praised Xi Jinping’s leadership, echoed official claims of a “complete victory in poverty alleviation” and of “building a moderately prosperous society in all respects,” and even described them as extraordinary achievements. Deputy Minister Shen added that Chair Cheng’s praise was so excessive that even former CCP Premier Li Keqiang likely would not have endorsed it. 

　　On historical and cultural issues, Deputy Minister Shen observed that Chair Cheng appeared to have all but abandoned Taiwan’s subjectivity and instead reduced herself to little more than a CCP spokesperson. References in her remarks to sharing Chinese surnames, speaking the Chinese language, celebrating Chinese festivals, and worshipping Chinese deities completely disregarded the diverse culture that has taken root and flourished in Taiwan, as well as Taiwan’s own cultural traditions, festivals, and religious practices.

　　Deputy Minister Shen further pointed out that during the press conference, Chair Cheng answered five of the six media questions by repeatedly citing what “General Secretary Xi mentioned,” giving the impression that she had become “Xi Jinping’s conduit,” speaking as his spokesperson. In her responses, she conveyed only the views of General Secretary Xi, leaving no trace of the voice of the “Taiwanese people,” which is deeply regrettable.

　　In addition, Deputy Minister Shen also noted that during Chair Cheng’s visit, she stated that birds should be flying in the sky, not missiles. Yet almost immediately afterwards, the CCP announced live-fire exercises, while its military aircraft and vessels continued their daily harassment of Taiwan without interruption. This only underscores that her so-called “peace tour” was merely one-sided rhetoric, and that the General Secretary Xi she so admired did not endorse it.

　　Deputy Minister Shen stated that Chair Cheng’s visit fully aligned with the CCP’s narrative framework and reflected a stance of “distancing from democracy and aligning with communism.” The trip has not only drawn scrutiny from a number of international media outlets (such as Foreign Policy), with some questioning whether it was a “journey of political surrender,” but also runs directly counter to the government’s current policy direction of strengthening national defense and deepening engagement with democratic countries.

　　Deputy Minister Shen concluded by calling on the public to recognize that the CCP’s Taiwan policy has only one objective, to eliminate the ROC’s national sovereignty and fulfill its ambition of imposing “one country, two systems.” In the face of authoritarian threats, Taiwan must not respond with compromise or passivity, nor should it advocate treating the Taiwan Strait issue as “China’s internal affair.” Instead, Taiwan should strengthen its national defense, deepen its international ties, and defend its free and democratic way of life through strength.

• MAC Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung Expresses Regret over KMT Chair Cheng Li-wun s Visit to mainland China Says She Aligned.pdf
• MAC Deputy Minister Shen Yu-chung Expresses Regret over KMT Chair Cheng Li-wun’s Visit to mainland China, Says She Aligned with CCP Narratives, Disregarded Taiwan’s Mainstream Public Opinion, Became “Xi Jinping’s Cond.pdf

MAC Press Release No. 015

April 10, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) issued a stern statement today (April 10) in response to the recent meeting held between Chinese Communist Party (CCP) leader Xi Jinping and a delegation led by Kuomintang (KMT) Chairman Cheng Li-wun, which runs counter to Taiwan’s mainstream public opinion. 

I. The common political foundation of the CCP and the KMT lies in their attempt to eliminate the Republic of China (ROC). In this latest interaction, the CCP and the KMT once again reaffirmed the so-called common political foundation of the “1992 Consensus” and “opposition to Taiwan independence.” However, since Xi Jinping put forward his “Xi’s Five Points” in 2019, Beijing has defined the “1992 Consensus” as “one China” and “one country, two systems.” This formulation is unacceptable to both the government and the people of Taiwan; this rejection constitutes the Taiwan consensus. By insisting on the “1992 Consensus,” Chairperson Cheng is in fact endorsing the CCP’s attempt to eliminate the ROC. She is presenting a “poison pill of annexation” as though it were a “remedy for peace.”

II. The positions advanced by the KMT and CCP leaders represent an evolved version of the CCP’s Taiwan policy, while the people of Taiwan remain firmly committed to defending national sovereignty. This latest interaction once again underscores that, under the banner of “peace,” the two parties are in fact echoing each other in promoting fundamental united-front notions such as “national rejuvenation and unification” and “both sides of the Taiwan Strait belong to one China.” The MAC expresses regret and emphasizes that the so-called “views and propositions” put forward by Xi Jinping and Chairman Cheng are, in fact, an evolved political proposition rooted entirely in the CCP’s long-standing Taiwan policy and aimed at eliminating the ROC. The MAC stresses that Taiwan belongs to the people of Taiwan, and that the Taiwan of today is also a Taiwan of the world. The people of Taiwan remain firmly committed to defending national sovereignty and their democratic and free way of life, and only the 23 million people of Taiwan can decide their future.

III. Chairperson Cheng Li-wun’s so-called “peace framework” is in fact a “unification framework,” and the so-called “institutionalization of cross-Strait peace” is, in essence, the “one country, two systems model for Taiwan.” Chairperson Cheng claims that she will work to establish the “institutionalization of cross-Strait peace” and achieve a “peace framework” that would “place cross-Strait peaceful development on an irreversible path and eliminate the root causes of conflict.” Yet for the CCP, only when Taiwan accepts “one country, two systems” and the ROC ceases to exist will it cease its military intimidation; only then will peace be possible. What Chairperson Cheng calls a “peace framework” is, in fact, a “unification framework” that packages unification as peace. What she calls the “institutionalization of cross-Strait peace” is, in essence, the “one country, two systems model for Taiwan” proposed by Xi Jinping.

IV. The government will take all necessary measures to safeguard national sovereignty and dignity. The government expresses grave concern over the KMT’s intentions to implement the so-called “cross-Strait peace framework,” a joint political initiative between the two parties. If such cooperation is pursued, 1) without facing the reality of the ROC’s existence, 2) without respecting the will of the people of Taiwan, and 3) while the CCP continues its military intimidation against Taiwan, the government cannot accept such an arrangement, and will take all necessary measures to safeguard the ROC and Taiwan’s freedom and democracy.

V. Beijing’s unilateral orchestration of a KMT-CCP leaders’ meeting is intended to “frame the cross-Strait issue as an internal matter” and mislead the international community. The CCP is deliberately trying to create the false impression that Taiwan is part of China’s internal affairs, thereby misleading the international community and advancing its objective of “opposing external interference.” By echoing the CCP’s narrative and even praising its governance achievements, Chairperson Cheng has not only gone against Taiwan’s mainstream public opinion but has also placed herself at odds with the international community’s concern for peace in the Taiwan Strait and opposition to CCP coercion. Chairperson Cheng says Taiwan shall not become a pawn, yet she is willingly allowing herself to become an “accomplice in the CCP’s united-front operations,” an apologist for the CCP, while turning a blind eye to the CCP’s ambitions of “hegemonic expansion” and “unification by force.”

VI. The MAC calls on the CCP to pragmatically face up to the reality and engage in benign interaction with Taiwan’s democratically elected and legitimate government. The MAC reiterates that party-to-party exchanges cannot replace official cross-Strait mechanisms. Any cross-Strait matter or interaction involving the exercise of public authority must be handled by the government in order to genuinely safeguard the rights and well-being of the people. The government has always upheld the principle of parity and dignity and remains willing to engage in cross-Strait dialogue and interaction without preconditions. The CCP should pragmatically face Taiwan’s democratically elected and legitimate government and engage in benign interaction with Taiwan. Taiwan will also continue to work side by side with its allies and partners in jointly advancing regional peace and prosperity.

Press Contact: Ms. Wu

Phone: +886 2 23975589 ext. 7024

• MAC Press Release No.015.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.015 (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 014

April 8, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) reminds Taiwanese citizens that, in light of the Hong Kong government’s recent amendments to the Implementation Rules for Article 43 of the Hong Kong National Security Law and the “Tobacco Control Legislation (Amendment) Ordinance 2025,” they should carefully review relevant local laws and regulations and assess potential risks before traveling to or transiting through Hong Kong. Travelers are also advised to remain mindful of their personal safety and the security of their belongings in order to avoid inadvertently violating the law and disrupting their planned itineraries.

　　The MAC noted that on March 23, 2026, the Hong Kong government announced amendments to the Implementation Rules for Article 43 of the “Hong Kong National Security Law,” adding measures that may be taken by national security authorities, along with related offences and penalties. Under the revised rules, police may require any “specified person” suspected of endangering national security to provide passwords for unlocking electronic devices or to assist in decryption. Refusal by the person to comply is punishable by a fine of HKD 100,000 and imprisonment for one year, while providing false or misleading information is punishable by a fine of up to HKD 500,000 and imprisonment for three years. In addition, customs officers may directly seize items deemed to have a seditious intention and apply to the court for forfeiture. For online content determined to endanger national security, authorities may require publishers, reposting individuals, or any other persons, as well as platform service providers, hosting service providers, internet service providers, or affected platforms, to remove such content. Furthermore, the “Tobacco Control Legislation (Amendment) Ordinance 2025” will come into effect on April 30 this year. The Hong Kong government will comprehensively prohibit the possession in public places of products such as electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and herbal cigarettes. Violators may be subject to a fine of HKD 3,000, which may increase to HKD 10,000 if the individual refuses to cooperate with law enforcement.

　　The MAC emphasized that the Hong Kong government’s latest amendments to national security-related regulations have once again heightened travel risks in Hong Kong. The government’s Travel Alert for Hong Kong remains at “Orange,” and the public is advised to avoid non-essential travel. Before traveling to or transiting through Hong Kong or Macao, individuals should carefully assess the relevant itinerary and associated risks. Relevant information is available on the MAC website under the sections “Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao Emergency Services Information,” “Travel Risks for Taiwanese Citizens Visiting Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao”, and “Government Response to the ‘Hong Kong National Security Law.’” Travelers are also advised to complete registration before departure with the MAC’s “Online Registration System for Taiwanese Citizens Visiting Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao”. In the event of an emergency while in Hong Kong or Macao, individuals may seek assistance by calling the 24-hour emergency hotlines of the MAC’s Representative Offices in Hong Kong (+852-6143-9012) or Macao (+853-6687-2557).

Press Contact: Mr. Wu

Phone: +886 2 23975589 ext. 7003

• MAC Press Release No.014.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.014 (Chinese).pdf

MAC Press Release No. 013

April 2, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) stated today (April 2) in response to Kuomintang (KMT) Chair Cheng Li-wun’s upcoming visit to mainland China, that the government supports healthy and orderly cross-Strait exchanges. However, exchanges must be conducted on the basis of parity and dignity and without any political preconditions. As the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) continues to escalate extreme pressure against Taiwan, Taiwanese political figures visiting mainland China should reflect Taiwan’s mainstream public opinion and act in ways that safeguards the overall national interests and Taiwan’s values of freedom and democracy. The government’s position is as follows:

I. Taiwanese political figures visiting mainland China should take seriously the CCP’s ambition to annex Taiwan and the public’s determination to strengthen self-defense, and must not allow themselves to be used as instruments of united front efforts to divide Taiwan. Over the past several years, the CCP has continued to escalate pressure and coercion against Taiwan with unabated hostility, pressing forward step by step toward its sole objective to eliminate Taiwan’s national sovereignty and fulfill its ambition of imposing “one country, two systems” on Taiwan. Yet Chair Cheng has chosen to disregard the increasingly complex and severe cross-Strait situation, and has even sought to use obstruction of the draft special defense budget act” as leverage to secure Beijing’s approval for her visit to mainland China, a course of action much to the disappointment of the mainstream public. The MAC therefore reminds Chair Cheng to take seriously the CCP’s intention to annex Taiwan and the public’s determination to support increased defense spending and safeguard Taiwan, and urges her neither to follow a political script set by the mainland Chinese side nor to become an instrument for the CCP’s united front operations aimed at dividing Taiwan.

II. They should urge the CCP to cease its military threats and provocations, face the reality of the Republic of China’s (ROC) existence, and respect the Taiwanese people’s right to decide their own future. The CCP has not changed and never will change, its intention and ambition to annex Taiwan simply because it engages in exchanges or interactions with any political party or individual in Taiwan. The government therefore urges Chair Cheng, in her contacts with the mainland side, to urge the CCP to immediately cease its ongoing harassment of Taiwan by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft and vessels, face the reality of the ROC’s existence, and respect the right of Taiwan’s 23 million people to decide Taiwan’s future.

III. They should safeguard national sovereignty and dignity, reject the CCP’s “one China framework” trap, and refrain from echoing Beijing’s narrative or political propositions aimed at eliminating the ROC. The fact that neither the ROC nor the People’s Republic of China is subordinate to the other constitutes the status quo in the Taiwan Strait. Yet the CCP habitually seeks to impose the “one China principle” in the course of cross-Strait exchanges, while advancing narratives aimed at eliminating the ROC and annexing Taiwan. The government therefore expects Chair Cheng, during her visit to mainland China, to firmly safeguard national sovereignty and dignity, reject any remarks or arrangements that undermine or downgrade the ROC, and refrain from cooperating with the CCP in sending misleading messages to the international community. She must avoid falling into the CCP-led “one China framework” trap, which leaves no room for the ROC’s existence and seeks to force Taiwan onto an irreversible path toward unification.

IV. They must strictly comply with the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area (the Cross-Strait Act) and all relevant regulations when conducting cross-Strait exchanges, and must not sign any political agreements. To guard against CCP united front infiltration and manipulation targeting Taiwan, the MAC reminds Chair Cheng that her visit to mainland China must fully comply with the Cross-Strait Act and all relevant laws and regulations. Without government authorization, she must not sign any agreement with the other side involving the exercise of public authority or political matters. She must also comply with all legal requirements governing cross-Strait exchanges and must not engage in any form of cooperation that violates the law or undermines Taiwan’s national security and national interests.

V. They should call on the CCP to engage in dialogue with Taiwan’s democratically elected and legitimate government, as this is the only way to truly safeguard the rights and well-being of the people. The people of Taiwan are fully aware of the CCP’s political objectives toward Taiwan and its united front tactics. The MAC emphasizes that any cross-Strait matter involving the exercise of public authority must be addressed pragmatically by the respective governments in order to genuinely safeguard the rights and well-being of the people, and that party-to-party exchanges cannot serve as a substitute for official cross-Strait communication mechanisms. The CCP is therefore urged to engage in communication and dialogue with Taiwan’s democratically elected and legitimate government to resolve differences, as this is the only way that will contribute to the benign development of cross-Strait relations.

Press Contact: Mr. Wu

Phone: +886 2 23975589 ext. 7003

• MAC Press Release No.013.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.013 (Chinese).pdf

Press Release No. 012

March 26, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) announced the results of a public opinion survey today (March 26). The findings show that Taiwan’s mainstream public opinion opposes the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) political propositions aimed at eliminating the Republic of China (ROC); supports the position that neither the ROC nor the People’s Republic of China (PRC) is subordinate to the other, and favors maintaining the cross-Strait status quo. The survey also indicates that the public supports the government’s efforts in strengthening self-defense capabilities, deterring the CCP’s external military expansion ambitions, and safeguarding peace in the Taiwan Strait as well as regional security and prosperity.

　　The MAC stated that the survey results show that approximately 81% of respondents (81.3%) disagree with the CCP’s “one country, two systems” proposition, of whom more than 50% (52.7%) strongly disagree. Nearly 80% (79.5%) do not agree with the CCP’s insistence on promoting unification under the “one China principle”, including over 50% (50.9%) who strongly disagree. Nearly 76% (75.9%) agree that “neither the ROC nor the PRC is subordinate to the other.” In addition, over 70% of respondents (70.4%) support the government increasing the defense budget to strengthen self-defense capabilities, including nearly 50% (44.4%) who strongly support this measure. These survey results show that Taiwan’s mainstream public opinion supports the government’s cross-Strait policy position and its efforts to ensure adequate preparedness to safeguard national sovereignty and security. With respect to long-term survey items, the results show that approximately 84% of the public support the government’s position of “maintaining the status quo defined in a broader sense” (84.7%) and agree that Taiwan’s future should be decided by its 23 million people (83.9%), demonstrating a stable long-term trend.

　　The MAC further pointed out that, under Article 21 of the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area (the Cross-Strait Act), individuals from mainland China must have established household registration in Taiwan for at least 10 years before becoming eligible to run for public office. The survey shows that the proportion of respondents who consider this requirement to be “too short” (47.8%) is higher than those who consider it “just right” (27.1%) or “too long” (2.6%). Approximately 10% of respondents (9.5%) believe such individuals should not be eligible at all to run for public office.

　　The MAC emphasized that the CCP has never renounced the use of force against Taiwan and continues to pose a sustained military threat. Despite economic headwinds, the CCP has increased its defense budget by 7% this year, widening the disparity between the defense budgets on the two sides of the Taiwan Strait to as much as elevenfold. To safeguard national sovereignty and security in the Taiwan Strait, the government will continue to advance the “Four Pillars of Peace Action Plan,” increase the defense budget, and strengthen self-defense capabilities to achieve peace through strength. The MAC also called on the other side to respect the objective fact that “neither the ROC nor the PRC is subordinate to the other” as well as the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, and to abandon rigid thinking and negative actions toward Taiwan, face Taiwan’s mainstream public opinion pragmatically, and resolve differences through communication and dialogue.

　　The MAC commissioned the Election Study Center of National Chengchi University to conduct a telephone survey of adults aged 20 and over in Taiwan from March 19 to March 23, 2026. A total of 1,138 valid samples were obtained, with a sampling error of ±2.91% at a 95% level of confidence.

Press Contact: Ms. Wu

Phone: +886 2 23975589 ext.7024

• MAC Press Release No.012.pdf
• 20260326_Summarized Results.pdf
• 20260326_Percentage Distribution.pdf
• 20260326_Run Chart.pdf
• MAC Press Release No.012 (Chinese).pdf

News Reference Material
March 23, 2026

　　The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) recently held its 76^th Advisory Committee Meeting on the topic of “Observations on the CCP’s ‘Two Sessions’.” Remarks and key points from the discussions by the introductory speaker and attending committee members are as follows:

I. The scholar’s introductory remarks noted that there has been no structural shift in the overall policy direction of this year’s “Two Sessions.” Although the CCP’s “Government Work Report” lowered the economic growth target to between 4.5% and 5%, marking the lowest level since 1991, it continues to adopt a more proactive fiscal policy and a moderately accommodative monetary policy. A high deficit ratio, along with spending through special government bonds, has become the new normal. In addition, CCP party and government officials continue to emphasize the leadership status of “Xi as the core.” The outline of the “15th Five-Year Plan” reaffirms key policy priorities, including developing “new quality productive forces,” advancing technological self-reliance and strength, boosting domestic demand and consumption, promoting green transformation, and preventing risks while safeguarding security, with no major adjustments expected in the near term. With regard to Taiwan policy, references to opposing “Taiwan independence,” promoting equal treatment, and advancing Chinese culture remain consistent with its longstanding positions, with no notable changes observed.

II. Some committee members observed that the policy tone of this year’s “Two Sessions” has shifted from a previously expansionary approach toward a more conservative and defensive posture. This shift suggests that Xi Jinping, as he approaches a potential fourth term, is placing greater emphasis on economic resilience, political security, and military loyalty, reflecting broader transformations underway across mainland China’s political, economic, social, and military domains. It may also be driven by changes in the international landscape, such as the United States (US) and Israeli strikes on Iran, which could be reinforcing mainland China’s preparations for strategic competition with the US.

III. Some committee members observed that mainland China is currently facing multiple structural challenges, including insufficient economic growth momentum, mounting fiscal pressure, weak consumption, industrial overcapacity, “involution-style” competition, and an aging population. They cautioned that efforts to further develop “new quality productive forces” may disrupt traditional industries and could lead to rising unemployment.

IV. Some committee members pointed out that Xi Jinping has recently placed heightened emphasis on military rectification and issues of loyalty, warning that the People’s Liberation Army must not “harbor divided loyalties.” He reiterated the political control of the military, indicating that political loyalty will be the foremost requirement for the armed forces, and underscoring “putting political integrity above professional competence.” Following recent large-scale purges, developments in personnel appointments and replenishment at the “Fifth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee” merit close attention. In addition, the CCP’s 2026 defense budget increased by 7%, exceeding its GDP growth target and reflecting its continued push for military modernization.

V. Some committee members cautioned that the “Ethnic Unity and Progress Promotion Law” passed during the “Two Sessions” expands liability from “acts of commission” to include “acts of omission.” Individuals deemed not to have actively promoted ethnic unity may be presumed to have committed “acts of omission.” The law also encourages citizens to report on one another and grants local authorities discretion to formulate their own regulations, which may have far-reaching implications for professionals in the arts, culture, and media sectors. The potential impact should not be underestimated.

VI. Some committee members analyzed that the CCP’s current priorities in its Taiwan-related work include institutionalizing legal measures to “oppose independence and promote unification,” advancing a cross-Strait common market, and seeking to build a sense of identification among Taiwanese youth. In addition, the CCP may seek to normalize law enforcement as a means of framing the Taiwan Strait as “internal waters” and asserting its jurisdiction over Taiwan. It may also intensify gray-zone incursion against Taiwan in an effort to influence Taiwan’s local elections later this year.

VII. Minister Chiu Chui-cheng stated during the meeting that reports and official statements related to the CCP’s “Two Sessions” indicate that the Beijing authorities’ central focus of governance currently remains “maintaining internal stability.” He added that the government will respond prudently to evolving cross-Strait and international developments, as well as to the CCP’s strategies toward Taiwan. The views put forward by committee members will also be provided to relevant agencies for reference.

*The MAC Advisory Committee Meeting is formed of experts and scholars in related fields. The views and opinions expressed in the meetings or excerpted in this article belong solely to the speakers.

• The 76th MAC Advisory Committee Meeting Highlights and Key Points of Discussion by Committee Members.pdf
• The 76th MAC Advisory Committee Meeting Highlights and Key Points of Discussion by Committee Members (Chinese).pdf