Shanghai Residents Can Now Apply to Visit Kinmen, Matsu

Shanghai's cultural and tourism authority officially announced today that local residents can now apply for group and individual tours to Taiwan's Kinmen and Matsu islands.

Starting right away, Shanghai residents may register for the tours through qualified travel agencies in Shanghai or the southwestern Fujian Province, and apply for relevant travel endorsements from exit-entry administration authorities on the two islands in accordance with relevant regulations.

The announcement came shortly after a Shanghai tourism delegation arrived in Kinmen for on-site research. The delegation visited scenic spots, including local wine cellars, and held in-depth exchanges with local tourism industry operators to lay the groundwork for the resumption of travel services.

Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said follow-up arrangements regarding the travel program will be released after the delegation trip.

The plan to resume Chinese mainland travel to Kinmen and Matsu was first unveiled in a notice released by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism on February 4. The ministry said the policy aims to further normalize cross-Strait exchanges and regularize cooperation in various fields, responding to the needs of Taiwan residents and the tourism industry, while enhancing the interests and well-being of compatriots on both sides of the Strait.

Preparations for the travel resumption have been proceeding in an orderly manner. The ministry has called on tourism industries across the Strait to strengthen communication and coordination, and provide high-quality services and travel products for mainland tourists visiting the two Taiwan islands.