Apart from these issues, if China buys out leading companies in major industries — for example telecommunications, finance and science and technology — not only will the foundations for the development of China’s industries be strengthened, Taiwan’s industries will be milked dry.
As for BOT infrastructure, each such project represents large numbers of business and employment opportunities. The motivation for the government to issue public debt of several hundred billion New Taiwan dollars to expand infrastructure should be aimed at ensuring that domestic businesses have work during the current economic downturn, which would increase employment.
However, the government wants to allow Chinese to invest in BOT infrastructure projects, effectively giving away business and employment opportunities. Taiwanese businesses have no technical difficulties when it comes to public works such as development of mountainous areas, land reclamation, developing tunnels, building airports and the development of commercial ports, nor do they suffer from a lack of funds. So why would the government want to allow Chinese businesses to invest in such projects?
More importantly, airports and docks are crucial to national security and once Chinese investment is involved in BOT projects of this nature, China will have Taiwan by the throat. Also, given the current influx of Chinese tourists, once Chinese businesses start investing in facilities at scenic and recreational areas in Taiwan, it is only inevitable that Chinese travel agencies will control the entire market. Chinese tourists will come to Taiwan on Chinese airplanes and stay in Chinese-run hotels.
The Ma administration’s reliance on China is outright wrong and its policies aimed at attracting Chinese investment are absurd. If the government continues to refuse to realize their errors, Taiwanese contempt for Ma and his government will continue to grow.
TRANSLATED BY DREW CAMERON
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