Guangxi, Taiwan strengthen integrated development

The 16th Guangxi-Taiwan Economic and Trade Cooperation Forum commenced in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region on Nov 2, in which pressing issues related to integrated economic and social development were discussed.

Lan Tianli, acting chairman of Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, said that Guangxi and Taiwan have seen more frequent exchanges and cooperation in culture, economy, and trade, adding that the two sides have entered a new stage of normalized and institutional exchanges and cooperation.

Guangxi has approved a total of 1,882 Taiwan-invested projects above designated scale by the end of September, with their contracted capital reaching $12.58 billion, becoming one of the main sources of Guangxi's use of overseas funds for many years.

Lan said that Guangxi welcomes Taiwan people to take an active role in the construction of the China (Guangxi) Pilot Free Trade Zone (FTZ) and the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, carrying out deep cooperation in areas spanning digital economy, smart manufacturing, electronic information, bioenergy, as well as modern distinctive agriculture.

Pei Jinjia, deputy director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, noted that the development of the Chinese mainland has always been a key factor influencing the trend of cross-Straits relations, as well as the basic driving force of cross-Straits economic and trade cooperation. 

Pei added that Taiwan businessmen and companies should grasp the opportunities to accelerate transformation and upgrading for further development.

Jointly held by the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council and the People's Government of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, the forum organized several matchmaking events and promotion activities. 

A total of 13 investment projects and two strategic cooperation agreements were signed during the event, worth 6.06 billion yuan ($905.47 million), covering various fields including e-commerce, health, modern agriculture, and food processing. 

Guangxi has taken the lead on the Chinese mainland in conducting economic, trade, and cultural exchanges and cooperation with Taiwan. 

First held in 2005, the forum has become one of the most important platforms for multi-field exchanges and cooperation between the central and western regions on the Chinese mainland and Taiwan.