TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC, 陸委會) launched a consultation service hotline on Monday (Dec. 2) to enhance emergency assistance for Taiwanese citizens traveling to mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau. This initiative follows the integration of the "Dynamic Registration System for Taiwanese Traveling to China, Hong Kong, and Macau" (國人赴陸港澳動態登錄系統) in June, aiming to streamline travel safety measures.
The number of Taiwanese registering travel to Hong Kong and Macau from Jan. 1 to Oct. 31 increased more than fivefold compared to the same period in 2023, while registrations for travel to China surged approximately 14 times. The MAC attributes these increases to recent amendments to China's national security laws, which have led to more instances of illegal detentions, interrogations, and restrictions on Taiwanese travelers.
In response to China's publication of opinions on punishing "stubborn Taiwan independence individuals," the government raised the travel alert for these regions to "orange" on June 27. Authorities urge Taiwanese to carefully assess the necessity of their trips and avoid non-essential travel. For those who must travel, the government encourages pre-trip registration in the dynamic system to facilitate assistance in emergencies.
Travelers with questions about the system's operation or safety assessments can call the hotline from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, for expert advice. The MAC's efforts underscore the importance of preparedness and caution for citizens traveling amid heightened geopolitical tensions.