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Officials lend support to corporate efforts
PRIVATE SECTOR:
It seems that various governmental sectors have seen the light and have decided to assist businesses in making their leap across the Strait
CNA, TAIPEI
Monday, Jul 09, 2001, Page 17
The Ministry of Economic Affairs has begun to subsidize industry associations in their efforts to expand business links across the Taiwan Strait China.
The Board of Foreign Trade under the ministry has also met with business representatives to discuss the easing of restrictions on visits from business people from across the Taiwan Strait for business purposes, resulting in a consensus to push for amendments to related laws.
Minister of Economic Affairs Lin Hsin-yi (ªL«H¸q) said that the government is considering easing its "no haste, be patient" policy toward China.
In addition, the China External Trade Development Council has launched an 18-month plan to assist local manufacturers with making inroads into China.
Annual two-way trade between Taiwan and China has reached US$30 billion, with Taiwan enjoying a surplus of US$20 billion, Lin said. He even suggested that Taiwan cooperate with China to solicit foreign capital.
Businesses here are hoping that the government will ease its "no haste, be patient" policy and have urged the government to implement the "three links" with China as soon as possible. The "three links" refers to complete opening of direct trade, transportation and postal links with China.
Taiwan began implementing the "mini three links" with China in the beginning of this year.
Beijing has basically snubbed Taipei's gesture, but has stopped short of preventing China's citizens from meeting with Taiwan citizens.
The "mini three links" refers to the direct trade, transportation and postal links between Taiwan-held Kinmen, opposite to China's Fujian Province, as well as between Taiwan-held Matsu, opposite to Fujian Province.
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