China’s ban on pineapples does not comply with global trade rules

Most of Taiwan’s pineapples are eaten domestically, according to Reuters. However, of those exported, 90% of them were sold to China last year.

“All of a sudden China informed us about pineapple pests and immediately banned imports of our products. We believe it does not comply with international trade rules,” Wang told Emily Tan on Wednesday. from CNBC.

“But we will do our best to reflect and discuss with China on this issue. In the meantime, we will try to diversify and sell our excellent products to other markets beyond China,” she said. , according to a translation of his commentaries into Mandarin.

Diplomats from the United States and Canada have also shown support for Taiwan and its pineapples. The two countries do not have formal diplomatic relations with the island, but maintain close relations.

Canada’s trade office in Taipei posted a photo on its Facebook account of its staff posing with pineapples and pizza. The post included the hashtag #FreedomPineapples.

Separately, the American Taiwan Institute used the hashtag #pineapplesolidarity and shared photos of tropical fruits in desks and shelves. He also published pineapple recipes.

Last week, a bill tabled in the House of Representatives called on the United States to resume diplomatic relations with Taiwan, negotiate a free trade agreement (FTA) and support the island’s membership of organizations. international.

Wang, Taiwan’s Minister of Economic Affairs, said Washington and Taipei have “long-standing” relations both economically and strategically. They also have strong cooperation in the semiconductor industry, she said.

“If in the future we could have an FTA, we would welcome it and pursue it as it would further strengthen our economic ties,” she added.