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China to halt individual tourism permits for Taiwan amid rising tension
![China to halt individual tourism permits for Taiwan amid rising tension]()
“We’re aware of the suspension,” said another operator, Shanghai Spring International Travel Service. “Today is the last day to apply for the permit as individuals.” China to halt individual tourism permits for Taiwan amid rising tension
China will stop issuing individual travel permits for Taiwan to people in 47 mainland cities from Aug. 1, its culture and tourism ministry said on Wednesday, citing the state of ties with the self-ruled island, but gave no details.
People from the mainland need permission to travel to what Beijing regards as a renegade province. Only travellers from 47 cities, such as Beijing, Shanghai and Xiamen, were allowed to visit Taiwan independently.
Mainland travellers with permits issued before Thursday can follow the original itinerary, but after that date tourists can only go in groups, said China International Travel Service (CITS), a major mainland tour operator.
“We’re aware of the suspension,” said another operator, Shanghai Spring International Travel Service. “Today is the last day to apply for the permit as individuals.”
Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council expressed its stern protest and condemnation of the move to China.
“The mainland authorities unilaterally destroyed the agreement without communication with our side,” the panel said in a statement.
