China’s Custard Apple Exports to China Spark Concerns Over Economic Dependency and Geopolitical Tensions

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China’s growing imports of custard apples from Taiwan have raised concerns among Taiwanese authorities and agricultural stakeholders, according to a report by the BBC. The surge in demand from mainland China has sparked fears of economic dependency and geopolitical tensions, as cross-strait relations remain a sensitive topic.

The BBC cited a statement from the Taiwan Agricultural Committee, which noted a 25% year-over-year increase in custard apple exports to China between January and May 2026. The committee attributed the rise to favorable trade agreements and growing consumer demand in mainland markets. However, some officials warned that reliance on a single trading partner could expose Taiwan’s agricultural sector to political risks.

“While increased exports are economically beneficial, we must remain cautious about over-dependence on any one market,” said a spokesperson for the committee, speaking on condition of anonymity. The statement did not specify whether the government is considering diversifying export routes.

The issue has also drawn attention amid broader cross-strait dynamics. Earlier this month, the China Media Group reported that film and television cooperation between mainland China and Taiwan entered a “new chapter,” with joint productions receiving regulatory approvals. However, the BBC highlighted that some Taiwanese filmmakers remain wary of Beijing’s influence, fearing that closer cultural ties could complicate political autonomy.

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Trade Dynamics and Political Tensions
Taiwan’s custard apple industry has long been a niche but valuable export, with the fruit prized for its sweetness and quality. According to data from the Taiwan External Trade Development Council, exports to China accounted for 40% of total custard apple shipments in 2025. The 2026 figures, though preliminary, suggest a continued shift toward mainland markets.

Analysts note that China’s demand for tropical fruits has risen sharply in recent years, driven by urbanization and rising middle-class consumption. However, the concentration of trade in a single region has raised alarms. “This is a double-edged sword,” said Dr. Lin Ching-hsin, an economist at National Taiwan University. “While it boosts revenue, it also creates vulnerabilities if political relations sour.”

The Taiwanese government has not publicly addressed the concerns, but internal discussions are reportedly underway. A separate report by the China Times cited unnamed officials expressing “concerns about the potential for economic leverage” in cross-strait trade.

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Reactions from Industry and Civil Society
The agricultural sector has mixed views on the trend. While some farmers welcome the higher prices and stable demand, others worry about long-term sustainability. “We’re grateful for the market, but we need to ensure we’re not being priced out by larger producers,” said Chen Wei-lin, a custard apple grower in Hualien.

Civil society groups have also weighed in. A Taipei-based think tank, the Taiwan Economic Research Institute, released a report in April warning that over-reliance on China could undermine Taiwan’s economic resilience. The report recommended expanding trade with Southeast Asian nations and the European Union to reduce exposure.

Meanwhile, Beijing has framed the trade as a symbol of “shared prosperity.” A statement from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce emphasized that “cooperation in agriculture reflects the mutual benefits of cross-strait ties.” The statement did not address concerns about political risks.

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Broader Implications for Cross-Strait Relations
The custard apple issue underscores the complex interplay between economics and politics in Taiwan-China relations. While trade has historically been a stabilizing force, recent years have seen increased friction over issues like Taiwan’s democratic governance and Beijing’s military activities near the island.

The BBC noted that Taiwan’s government has maintained a policy of “strategic ambiguity,” avoiding direct confrontation while reinforcing ties with other nations. However, the recent trade data may pressure officials to reassess their approach.

In a related development, the China Media Group reported that a new film co-production between a mainland studio and a Taiwanese director has received approval from both sides. The project, which focuses on historical themes, is seen as a step toward greater cultural collaboration. Yet, some Taiwanese critics argue that such initiatives could be used to promote Beijing’s narrative.

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Looking Ahead
As of June 2026, no official measures have been announced to address the trade concerns. However, the Taiwanese Agricultural Committee has indicated it will monitor the situation closely. Meanwhile, the Chinese government has continued to highlight the benefits of cross-strait economic integration.

For now, the custard apple imports remain a microcosm of the broader challenges facing Taiwan’s economy. Balancing trade opportunities with political risks will likely remain a central issue for policymakers in the coming months.

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“While increased exports are economically beneficial, we must remain cautious about over-dependence on any one market.”
Source: Taiwan Agricultural Committee spokesperson