TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan’s travel agencies have called on the government to reevaluate its ongoing group travel ban to China, maintaining pressure despite the Tourism Administration’s February decision to extend a three-year prohibition on tour groups.
Hsiao Po-jen, a representative from the Travel Agent Association of R.O.C., Taiwan, criticized the ban as "illegal, insensible, and unconstitutional," urging a government rethink. "I know high-ranking inter-ministerial committee members may have national security concerns, but we believe this shouldn't be an issue for cross-strait exchanges," Hsiao said.
On Thursday (May 30), Li Men-yen, Minister of Transportation and Communications, acknowledged some easing of restrictions. "We've lifted restrictions to a degree. In the future, we hope that after the gradual relaxing of restrictions, cross-strait tourism exchanges can be achieved for both individual travelers and groups," Li explained.
Despite the slight ease, the broader restrictions remain firmly in place, affecting numerous travel plans and the industry's economic health. Approximately 1,000 groups, involving around 20,000 travelers who had bookings prior to the June 1 announcement, are permitted to proceed. However, travel agencies continue to face significant limitations, barred from advertising and promoting new tours.
The standoff continues as both sides seek a resolution that balances national security concerns with economic interests, especially in a sector still reeling from pandemic impacts.