Wang Yang, 4th-ranked in the Chinese Communist Party, says "Taiwanese companies must draw a line from independence forces"

"Must Contribute to National Reunification and the Revival of the Chinese Nation" Indirect Warning
Appears Aimed at Cutting Funding Sources of Independence Forces Like the DPP Through Pressure on Taiwanese Companies

[Asia Economy Beijing=Special Correspondent Jo Young-shin] Wang Yang, the 4th-ranked member of the Chinese Communist Party and a member of the Standing Committee of the Politburo, sent a strong warning message to Taiwanese businesspeople, urging them to sever ties with the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and other independence forces.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

According to China News Network on the 8th, Wang Yang sent a congratulatory message to the Cross-Strait (China and Taiwan) Business Conference held via video the previous day, stating, "The boards of directors on both sides should unite Cross-Strait businesspeople, stand on the right side of history, firmly draw a line against Taiwan independence forces, and contribute to the promotion of the complete reunification of the motherland and the realization of the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation."

He also did not forget a "conciliatory policy" aimed at allowing Taiwanese businesses to grow. He emphasized, "The idea that the two sides are one family and the policy of sharing development opportunities with Taiwanese compatriots will not change," and "Measures that practically benefit Taiwanese businesses will also remain unchanged."

The Chinese government recently imposed a fine and tax penalty of 474 million yuan (approximately 87.7 billion KRW) on Asia Cement and Yuandong Century, subsidiaries of Taiwan’s Yuandong Group, for violating various regulations including environmental protection at their business sites in China. Additionally, even pre-approved idle land was reclaimed.

As a result, Yu Shidong, chairman of Yuandong Group, published a reflective article opposing Taiwan independence in Taiwan’s United Daily News. In the article, Chairman Yu stated his support for the "One China" principle and the "1992 Consensus" (an agreement recognizing one China while allowing each side to use its own name).

Chairman Yu also criticized Taiwanese politicians, saying they seem to focus only on winning votes in elections and neglect broader industrial strategies.

Although Chinese authorities mentioned various violations by Yuandong Group, they effectively targeted financial support to independence forces such as the DPP.

Accordingly, it is expected that Taiwanese businesses will find it difficult to support independence forces like the DPP in the future.

Some interpret the Chinese authorities’ actions against Yuandong Group as a form of political intervention aimed at cutting off the DPP’s funding sources. It is also presumed that China will directly or indirectly intervene in Taiwan’s politics, including future presidential elections.