Mainland China’s business environment for Taiwanese firms has some feeling ‘targeted’ – so why stay?
- Many businesses from across the Taiwan Strait are still hoping to cash in on the mainland market, but red tape and requirements make it a daunting challenge
- Taiwan’s coming presidential election could improve ties with the mainland or drive a bigger wedge between them, as businesses with a vested interest try to stay apolitical
Despite Beijing’s push for integration and a stronger national identity, Taiwanese businesses in mainland China say they face a complicated, fickle environment that can leave them feeling singled out or “targeted”.
Many such companies say they have become encumbered by red tape and additional checks, particularly when an election approaches and tensions boil across the Taiwan Strait.
Still, the size of the mainland market and its geographic proximity mean that while many may be complaining, few will seriously consider leaving.
“We still face operational challenges. Even after the resumption of wine shipments to the mainland, we are required to get new registration numbers and conform to new packaging and labelling rules,” said an employee of Kinmen Kaoliang Liquor, which is based in Taiwan’s Kinmen county, speaking on condition of anonymity. “The registration process is a complex paper chase … We heard that some have sought help from mainland brokers who charged exorbitant fees.”