Zhang Zhong Jie’s cafe on Kinmen Island, Taiwan, is enveloped in remnants of past military conflicts, with its location within a deserted military fortification surrounded by rusting tanks. Just six miles of water separate the cafe from mainland China. Despite tense cross-strait relations, Chinese tourists were a crucial revenue source for the cafe and the island’s economy since it opened in 2018, regularly arriving in busloads. However, circumstances changed drastically when Beijing banned individual travelers in 2019 due to deteriorating relations, followed by a ban on tour groups in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. For many Kinmen residents, the absence of Chinese tourists, who previously contributed significantly to the local economy, has been devastating.
Kinmen, known for its military history, shifted its focus from defense to tourism as military presence waned, utilizing its history to attract visitors. However, businesses have struggled with the downturn, with some like noodle shop owner Beddy Chang turning to exporting products, while others like Wu Zeng Yun shifted focus to Taiwan’s main island. The February 14 incident involving a Taiwanese and Chinese vessel exacerbated tensions, leading to an increased Chinese Coast Guard presence and further straining businesses like Lu Wen Shiung’s boat tours.
Despite these challenges, there remains hope. An agreement in July between Taiwanese and Chinese authorities over the incident allowed for some thawing of relations, culminating in the arrival of 22 mainland tourists in late September. While not a full return to pre-ban tourism levels, this development sparks optimism about future economic recovery. Local guide Chen Hua Sheng remains hopeful for strengthened ties through tourism, aiming for economic growth on both sides of the strait.
Original Story https://www.cnbc.com/2024/10/08/chinese-travelers-return-to-kinmen-a-taiwan-island-off-mainland-china.html
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