China's Travel Restrictions on Taiwanese Nationals Raise Global Concerns

Beijing has imposed travel bans on Taiwanese nationals within China, raising concerns amid rising tensions between both nations. A senior executive from Formosa Plastics Group was questioned by Chinese authorities and banned from leaving China. This incident increases worries about business and political pressures in China.

Beijing's recent imposition of travel bans on Taiwanese nationals has heightened global concerns amid escalating tensions between China and Taiwan. Analysts warn of severe risks for those traveling or conducting business in China.

The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) of Taiwan confirmed on Wednesday that a senior executive from Taiwan-based Formosa Plastics Group was questioned by Chinese authorities upon arriving in Shanghai. The individual has been banned from leaving China. This incident occurs at a time when relations between China and Taiwan are particularly strained. Notably, several foreigners have also been barred from leaving China.

Experts suggest that such cases could have a chilling effect on Taiwan's business community, potentially leading to an exodus from China. Wang Kuo-Chen of the Chung-Hua Institute for Economic Research commented that some Taiwanese businesses have already begun downsizing their Chinese operations. He anticipates this trend will accelerate as companies seek to protect their interests. MAC has withheld specific details about the executive for safety reasons. Formosa Plastics Group is actively seeking more information and offered to assist the individual.

Political and financial analysts point to parallels with other instances where Beijing has pressured Taiwanese or foreign business figures. Chen Fang-Yu from Soochow University likened the situation to last year's tax probe into Foxconn, which coincided with its founder's presidential run in Taiwan.

Similar incidents include the disappearance of a 22-year-old Taiwanese man in Shanghai and the sentencing of Taiwanese political activist Yang Chih-Yuan to nine years in prison on secession charges. China has issued harsh penalties, including the death sentence, for so-called 'die-hard Taiwan independence activists.'

Foreign nationals are not exempt from these measures. According to the Duihua Foundation, around 200 Americans are held under coercive measures in China, with over 30 banned from leaving. Additionally, 17 Japanese citizens have been detained on spying charges since 2015, with five still in custody as of November 2023.

(With inputs from agencies.)