TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — China's unilateral intention to reinstate tariffs for 134 items under the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) drew criticism from Taiwan on Friday (May 31).

The Chinese government claimed Taiwan broke ECFA rules by banning the import of some Chinese products. China’s Ministry of Finance will reinstate tariffs on 134 items on June 15, per a Chinese press release.

Taiwan responded by protesting and will assist the affected industries, per CNA.

Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) said in his first policy address to the legislature all necessary steps to protect Taiwanese interests would be taken.

Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Minister Chiu Chui-cheng (邱垂正) called China’s actions a violation of the established rules according to both the ECFA and World Trade Organization (WTO). 

He urged China to help with mutually beneficial cross-strait commercial development. He also called on China to address differences through dialogue instead of resorting to pressure and intimidation.