Taiwan was again listed by the US government as among the world's major drug-producing countries and transshipment points last year, according to a report released on Wednesday.
China and Hong Kong were also among the 26 nations named on the list.
President Bill Clinton signed the list, commonly called "the majors," and sent it to Congress, State Department spokesman James Rubin said, adding that it remained almost the same as the previous year's.
Clinton also mentioned in a written statement that the list does not necessarily reflect the anti-drug efforts made by the governments of those countries. Geographical, commercial and economic factors could encourage drug smuggling activities despite efforts made by the governments, the statement said.
Both Taiwan and Hong Kong were cited by the statement as examples of governments cooperating with US anti-drug authorities.
Officials from Taiwan's Criminal Investigation Bureau yesterday called the listing unfair because the island was cited due to its position on a major drug trafficking route and despite the government's efforts and cooperation with US authorities.
The officials also said information from police, customs, coast guard, and other investigative authorities shows that Taiwan is not a drug-producing country.
Most of the amphetamines seized over the last few years were produced in China and smuggled to Taiwan by Chinese fishermen, the officials said.
The officials also vowed to spare no effort in continuing the government's crackdown on drug smuggling.
The list will be used as a basis for decisions on US anti-drug aid.
Half of Washington's aid to nations on the list is suspended pending a decision by the president.
Taiwan's appearance on the list, however, will cause no direct financial loss for the island since it does not receive US aid for anti-drug operations.
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