Quanzhou launches first maritime center for Taiwan enterprises

The first maritime affairs and customs service center for Taiwan compatriots and enterprises on the Chinese mainland was founded on Wednesday in Quanzhou, Fujian province.

The center is based at the Nan'an Association of the Quanzhou Taiwan Business Association. It will provide centralized services for Taiwan compatriots and enterprises, including appointment acceptance for government services, mediation of disputes involving Taiwan enterprises, and consultation on passenger and cargo transportation between Fujian and Taiwan.

"Staff members from the maritime affairs and customs departments at the service station will further cater to the practical needs of Taiwan compatriots and enterprises," said Wang Feng, deputy director of the Quanzhou Maritime Bureau. "They will expand service offerings to provide more comprehensive and attentive services for the investment, employment, business, trade, residence, and daily life of Taiwan compatriots in Quanzhou."

So far, the association has attracted 75 member units, and there is a significant demand for services in port administrative processing and consultation on Taiwan-related policies.

"For example, in the recent period, there has been frequent sudden fog in the area near the Quanzhou-Kinmen passenger terminal in the morning, affecting the departure of passenger ships," said Hong Xijian, president of the association. "Many Taiwan compatriots called us to inquire about the latest departure schedule to avoid missing the ships."

"More government units at the service station will provide them with more useful information and channels to solve difficulties," he added.

In recent years, a Taiwan yacht-producing enterprise in Nan'an city has approached maritime, customs and other departments, requesting safety guarantees and policy support for new yacht trials and the export of yachting products.

With the cooperation and efforts of relevant units, since 2022, the company has successfully obtained port permits to export six newly-built yachts to regions such as Australia, the United States, and Southeast Asia.

The maritime department has also guaranteed water traffic safety for the company's yacht trials by issuing navigation safety warnings and providing on-site escorting.

"After entering the service center, we will provide maritime services tailored to more Taiwan enterprises," said Wang. "Located across from the Quanzhou-Kinmen passenger terminal, the center is the first stop for Taiwan compatriots arriving in Quanzhou. The center provides various facilities such as tea, coffee, mobile phone charging and wireless network, as well as assistance services, including consultations for travelers."