The beef dilemma
The importation of US beef has put the administration of President Ma Ying-jeou (馬英九) in a dilemma. On the one hand, the government is responsible for safeguarding public health. On the other, Taiwan needs to maintain good relations with the US by importing its beef.
In terms of Taiwan and the US, beef is more than just a piece of meat. It is related to arms purchases, trade and even diplomatic relations. This is particularly salient following US President Barack Obama’s recent trip to China. As a result, the Ma administration is eager to make friendly overtures toward Washington. The only reason Ma’s administration has eased restrictions on US beef is that it has no choice.
The crucial issue, however, is whether the beef really is safe. Public shows of dissatisfaction and criticism from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) demonstrate the level of concern. If beef imported from the US were demonstrably safe, there would be no problem.
On Nov. 14 a campaign to boycott US beef was launched, with many showing their antipathy toward Ma in the process. Former DPP chairman Frank Hsieh delivered a public speech that left no doubt that US beef could deal the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) a severe blow if the Ma administration does not take appropriate action.
US beef has divided two countries, political parties, the public and the government. The results of the recent election are powerful evidence of this. Ma needs to deal with the beef dilemma to keep everything on the right track.
JESSICA SU
Taipei
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