In 2025, nearly 4.9 million trips from Taiwan to Chinese mainland were logged. Over third by young people. This jump comes after new services made cross-Straits travel easier, according to member of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).
Xu, on the Standing Committee of the Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League,shared these insights during group interview at Great Hall of the People in Beijing . He stressed shared hopes for peace and development on both sides of Taiwan Straits.
As a surgeon and third-generation Taiwan compatriot on mainland,Xu often meets young Taiwanese chasing education, careers,or business ventures. Many attracted by mainland's welcoming work climate, rich culture,and global academic exchanges. Mainland's vast market and lively industries offer fertile ground for Taiwan's youth.
“Closer exchanges between young people from Taiwan and mainland will help build a brighter future,” Xu said. He believes more interaction among youth can turn the vision of unity into reality,fostering collaboration for a better tomorrow .
Backing Xu's view, Cai Peihui, a deputy from Taiwan delegation to National People's Congress (NPC), noted more young Taiwanese eyeing the mainland for opportunities. Keen to grow with China's development while chasing personal goals and aiding cross-Straits integration.
Recently,mainland eased entry measures for Taiwanese residents. Cai,with roots in Tainan but raised in Quanzhou,Fujian, is well-known among young Taiwanese arriving on mainland. Dubbed “Uncle Cai,” he helps newcomers build careers and lives.
Cai recounted how some Taiwanese entrepreneurs moved to Fujian to start businesses. Fujian,a demo zone for cross-Straits development, offers policies benefiting Taiwanese. These initiatives help young people start businesses,find jobs,and settle down.
A decade ago, young Taiwanese approached Cai with plans to grow medicinal herbs in Fujian,drawn by its Kinmen-like climate. Initially unsure, they started small and faced challenges, like rent issues . Cai linked them with planting bases,factories,and sales channels,helping them thrive .
Now, their business earns nearly one million yuan annually, a big turnaround. “At first,they just wanted to try,” Cai said. “Now they're confident about next step.”
Despite challenges from Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) restrictions in Taiwan,Cai sees many young people thinking long-term . He insists broader cross-Straits exchanges can't be stopped. Taiwan's youth engaging with mainland shows they see mainland's growth as a chance for their futures too .
As Taiwan visits rise, potential for deeper ties remains. Xu and Cai push for continued dialogue and cooperation, stressing future of cross-Straits relations depends on young generation's involvement.
