Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate Frank Hsieh (
Hsieh said that he opposed the idea of a "cross-strait common market" proposed by Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) vice presidential candidate Vincent Siew (蕭萬長), adding that he did not have a problem with Chinese capital because Taiwan is a free society.
supporting measures
However, he underlined the importance of mapping out supplementary measures, such as setting ceilings for investment. Investment in national defense technology, industries critical to public livelihood and the nation's unique agricultural technologies must be regulated, he said.
Hsieh said he was also in favor of allowing more white-collar immigrants along with investment, he said.
Hsieh dismissed accusations by KMT presidential candidate Ma Ying-jeou that he does not care about the economy.
Improving the economy is as important as national pride and dignity, he said.
"If we do not talk about pride and dignity and only focus on the economy, we will become like Hong Kong and Macau, whose only goal in life is to make money," he said.
Hsieh said the main difference between him and his rival was that Ma does not take national security into consideration when talking about economic policy.
happiness
Hsieh said he envisioned an economy where happiness is the goal, in which economic development is complemented by social justice.
A healthy economy and social justice can improve people's lives, he said.
To that end, Hsieh proposed improving the investment environment and reforming the tax system in combination with measures to develop niche industries and revitalize traditional industries.
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