Chen Deming, minister of the Ministry of Commerce, visited Pingtan on Oct 17 accompanied by officials from Fujian province and the Pingtan Comprehensive Pilot Zone.

Chen visited the Straits ship and inquired regarding its business condition. He said more marine routes shall be opened in addition to the current Pingtan-Taichung route, specifically one linking Pingtan county and Taipei, the political and economic center of Taiwan.

Chen then visited the small-value Taiwan commodities trade market and the Taiwan fruit wholesale market in Pingtan. He suggested adjusting market stall rent in the interest of Taiwan merchants to attract more start-up business in Pingtan. The new businesses will also bring capital, talent, information, technology and other important resources to the island county.

Chen mentioned that Pingtan is extending its cooperation with Taiwan in the tourism industry to build cross-Straits tourism brands. By making full use of its rich tourism resources, Pingtan could develop into an international island resort.

He also visited Pingtan's underground piping project. He said that although the project required a large one-off investment, it would save money and land in the long run by preventing repeated maintenance and efficiently utilizing underground space.

With regard to Pingtan's plan to build a cross-Straits logistic center, he said a financial center shall also be built to ensure large material flows.

Chen acknowledged the significant role Pingtan plays in facilitating cross-Straits communication. He said he would look into Pingtan's industrial planning and provide suggestions for further progress in Pingtan.

Edited by Chen Zhilin and Michael Thai