TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Tourism Administration (觀光署) announced on Friday (March 14) plans to resume cross-strait group tourism under the principle of bilateral reciprocity. Officials emphasized the need to proceed through consultations with the Taiwan Strait Tourism Association (台旅會) and the Association For Tourism Exchange Across The Taiwan Straits (海旅會), urging the Chinese side to expedite discussions.
Following a national security meeting led by President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) on Thursday, the administration issued a press release highlighting travel safety concerns for Taiwanese citizens visiting China. The administration will continue to align with cross-strait policies and request travel agencies to remind tourists to prioritize their safety when traveling to China.
The administration reiterated its stance on advancing healthy and orderly exchanges through consultations with the aforementioned associations. These associations, established as specialized units by both sides, manage arrangements for Chinese tourists visiting Taiwan, addressing issues such as travel arrangements, quality, rights, safety, and emergencies.
The administration noted that Chinese tourism to Taiwan has been on hold for years, with significant changes in cross-strait relations. Practical needs necessitate negotiations on travel safety, quality, and stability to ensure smooth future exchanges. The administration once again urged the Chinese side to initiate consultations promptly.
