Using cross-Straits decoupling as 'pledge of loyalty' will only leave Taiwan more vulnerable to US exploitation: spokesperson

The DPP authorities using the promotion of "decoupling and breaking chains" across the Taiwan Straits as a bargaining chip in negotiations with the US and a "pledge of loyalty" will only make Taiwan region more vulnerable to US exploitation, said Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council.

Zhu made the remarks at a Wednesday press briefing in response to growing concerns over the DPP authorities' handling of US tariff threats.

The DPP authorities have proposed zero tariffs as the basis for talks with the US, pledging to remove trade barriers rather than imposing reciprocal measures, media reported.

Widespread skepticism has emerged in Taiwan's business community, with many believing DPP authorities' decision will significantly impact the island's agriculture, fisheries, and grassroots industries, according to media reports.

The US, under its "America First" policy, has wielded the "tariff stick" globally, undermining the multilateral trading system and disrupting the world economic order, turning the so-called "return of Taiwan businesses" and "new southbound policy" promoted by the DPP authorities into a laughingstock, said Zhu.

Instead of correcting its mistakes, the DPP authorities have doubled down, using the promotion of "decoupling and breaking chains" across the Taiwan Straits as a bargaining chip in negotiations with the US and "a pledge of loyalty," the spokesperson said. "This will only make Taiwan more vulnerable to US exploitation, facilitate the hollowing out its competitive industries, turn Taiwan region into a dumping ground for US agricultural products, and further harm Taiwan's economic development and the interests and well-being of Taiwan people."

"Taiwan secession is a dead end, and external forces are unreliable," said Zhu, adding that the Chinese mainland welcomes industries and farmers from Taiwan to engage in exchanges, cooperation, and integrated development on the mainland.

The mainland's economy has a strong foundation, great resilience, and vast potential, with long-term positive prospects. It remains the best choice for businesses and individuals from Taiwan region to invest and grow, as well as a solid shield against external risks, the spokesperson said.