Chinese mainland studying measures to suspend tariffs on Taiwan products

The Chinese mainland is currently studying measures to suspend tariff concessions on certain products from Taiwan, including agricultural and fishery goods, machinery, automotive parts and textiles, according to the Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement, the Ministry of Commerce said on Tuesday.

Before the decision, the Tariff Commission of the State Council had already suspended the preferential tariff rates under the ECFA, a comprehensive cross-Strait economic pact, on 12 imported products originating from the Taiwan region, including propylene and ortho-xylene, which has been effective from Jan 1, a spokesperson with the ministry said.

Since the announcement was made, Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party authorities have been under scrutiny for their failure to implement any effective measures to lift trade restrictions on the mainland, the spokesperson said.

Instead, they have been engaged in political maneuvering, attempting to shift blame and evade responsibility, the spokesperson added, noting that departments concerned will review and adjust trade policies toward the Taiwan region in accordance with the relevant provisions and regulations of the ECFA.

wangkeju@chinadaily.com.cn