In a significant move to strengthen ties across the Taiwan Strait, China’s Fujian province has launched comprehensive integration initiatives combining infrastructure development and cultural exchange programs. The coastal province, positioned as the primary gateway to Taiwan, is implementing concrete measures to create “integrated living circles” with the outlying islands of Jinmen and Matsu.
The city of Xiamen has committed to completing its section of the Xiamen-Jinmen Bridge within the year, a landmark infrastructure project designed to facilitate daily cross-Strait connectivity. The municipal government’s work report outlines additional collaborative efforts including shared access to the newly constructed Xiamen Xiang’an International Airport and the development of integrated electricity and gas networks between Xiamen and Jinmen. To streamline transportation, Xiamen is implementing intelligent customs clearance systems for ferry passengers.
Beyond physical connectivity, Xiamen is establishing itself as a testing ground for cross-Strait standard harmonization. The city plans to formulate or revise over 30 common standards across sectors including healthcare and domestic services in 2026. This standardization effort builds on previous success in economic cooperation, with the Cross-Strait Integrated Circuit Industry Cooperation Pilot Zone showing notable progress. Xiamen recorded an 11% year-on-year increase in new Taiwan-funded enterprises following the implementation of 25 measures supporting Taiwan businesses.
Meanwhile, Fuzhou, the provincial capital, reported substantial growth in Taiwan investment with 355 new Taiwan-funded enterprises established in the previous year, representing a 26.3% increase. Fuzhou’s 2026 agenda emphasizes social and cultural integration, focusing on equalizing basic public services including healthcare, housing, and education for Taiwan compatriots. The city will additionally promote ancestral “root-seeking” activities and enhance youth exchanges through sports diplomacy, particularly baseball and rugby, to strengthen emotional and familial bonds across the Strait.