China Courts Taiwanese Influencers to Enhance Xinjiang Image

China has been inviting Taiwanese celebrities to visit Xinjiang to counter negative perceptions of its control over the region. While influencers have praised the area, Taiwan warns citizens about potential risks. Critics see this as propaganda aimed at masking China's repression of minority groups.

China has reportedly been inviting Taiwanese celebrities to visit Xinjiang, in an effort to counter negative perceptions surrounding its control of the region. Taiwanese YouTuber Potter King disclosed in June that China has been recruiting influencers to travel and create content focused on Xinjiang, as reported by Taiwan News.

A second group of internet celebrities is expected to highlight the region's local environment and public safety. During a press conference on September 5, Cabinet Deputy Spokesperson Hsieh Tzu-han stated that Taiwan is gathering information on China's activities. She cautioned Taiwanese citizens regarding the potential risks associated with traveling to China, noting possible personal repercussions and impacts on Taiwan's reputation.

Potter King mentioned that influencers with substantial followings were targeted for recruitment. According to reports, the influencers have praised Xinjiang, describing the locals as friendly and the region as a safe destination. Taiwanese YouTuber Ariel, who has 1.1 million subscribers, denied any invitation from China. She clarified that her recent trip to Xinjiang was a pre-planned vacation with friends and that she did not profit from the content she posted.

Despite these assurances, many netizens on Threads have criticized the influencers, suggesting that China's hospitality is a strategy to mask its repression of minority groups in Xinjiang. Chen Li-fu, President of the Taiwan Professors Association, described China's use of celebrity endorsements as a new form of publicity, arguing such messages are more credible when delivered by Taiwanese rather than appearing as mere propaganda, Taiwan News reported.

Furthermore, China's Taiwan Affairs Office hosted a group of Taiwanese businesspeople in Xinjiang in August to promote investment and industrial development opportunities. Another delegation of Taiwanese businesspeople is scheduled to visit Xinjiang in September to explore investment prospects in key industrial supply chains.

(With inputs from agencies.)