China banned imports of 3,000 Taiwanese food products and over 100 food manufacturers on Monday night. The move is seen as retaliation for a reported visit by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan during her current Asia trip. Chinese authorities have previously said they would use “forceful measures” to oppose a Pelosi visit.
Taiwan authorities on Tuesday say the economics ministry and the agriculture council have been aware of the situation and are ready to offer assistance to affected food manufacturers.
The agriculture council says one of the reasons for the Chinese import ban is due to a customs law that came into effect in April 2021. The law claims that any overseas manufacturers who fail to renew their registration at customs by the effective date of the new regulation can’t export food products to China. Taiwan officials say they will assist manufacturers to process the paperwork related to the new law.
The list of Taiwanese companies that are temporarily banned for import into China include producers of tea leaves, vegetables, dried fruits, honey, cocoa beans and products from around 700 fishing vessels.