Posted on 03/30/2003 7:08:02 PM PST by Rams82
Tensions between mainland China and Taiwan have made many cross-strait trade issues become politically- oriented disputes, the latest incident involving the sale of beer.
China-made beer Tsing Tao is a favourite brand among many Taiwanese.
But some sectors in Taiwan are calling for a boycott of the popular liquor.
The angry protestors from some pro-Taiwan independence groups say it is unfair that Tsing Tao is allowed to be sold in Taiwan, while the island's own brewery cannot sell its beer in China under its formal name "Taiwan Beer."
Instead, the company is required to sell "Taiwan Beer" under a new label called "TTL Beer".
Taiwan legislators agree that such unfair trade trade practices should not exist across the straits now that both sides have been admitted to the World Trade Organisation.
"People of Taiwan should have the strength of character to say that from now on, we will not drink Tsing Tao beer or even Yanjing Beer," said Tsai Chi-Fang of the Democratic Progressive Party.
They urge local consumers not to buy imported mainland Tsing Tao Beer until China reverses its decision.
Wei Yao-hsuan, Vice-President, Taiwan Tobacco and Liquor Co., said: "If Taiwan can issue permits for Tsing Tao Beer to be sold here, then China should do the same for Taiwan Beer. Some people have asked if this is a political issue, but I don't think I'm the one who should answer that question."
Tsing Tao beer was singled out for the boycott over several other mainland brands available because it enjoys the biggest market share in Taiwan.
Market surveys have shown that since its launch in Taiwan last April, Tsing Tao Beer has grasped nearly 15 per cent of the beer-drinking market, and it is still growing.
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