However, Taiwanese economists specializing in China's economic development said that Taiwan needs to make a greater effort to protect its mature biotechnologies in the sector of agriculture.
According to Chiu Chen Lee-in (
"The Council of Agriculture (COA) has to make a list of our precious technologies developed in the past. Exporting Taiwanese agricultural products to other markets, including China, should be accompanied by well-designed regulations that ensure Taiwan's existing advantages," Chiu Chen told the Taipei Times.
Chiu Chen said China's huge market has a lot of potential for manufacturers and firms in the service industry, while Taiwan's quality fruit exports to China -- which just dropped its import tariffs on 15 kinds of Taiwanese fruit -- were not a big issue for the rising economic power.
"Once China asks Taiwan to import Chinese fruit under the framework of World Trade Organization, can we beat the products having competitive prices? That would result in a serious setback for Taiwan's agricultural industry," Chiu Chen said.
Chiu Chen said that President Chen's reluctance to strengthen economic ties with China was more a political motive rather than an economic calculation.
"In fact, the lack of a free market mechanism in China and the corruption of Chinese customs officers and officials at local levels might soon discourage Taiwanese people who are in favor of exporting agricultural products. The cost will increase sharply because of what it takes to smooth the process," Chiu Chen said.
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