Taiwan Forces Pro-Beijing Influencer to Depart Amid Rising Tensions

In a rare move, Taiwan has revoked the visa of Liu, a pro-Beijing influencer, mandating her departure due to her videos promoting Beijing's claim over Taiwan. This action underscores the government's commitment to safeguarding Taiwanese sovereignty amid growing Chinese influence.

Taiwan's National Immigration Agency (NIA) has ordered the departure of a pro-Beijing Chinese influencer identified as Liu, who must leave the island within days or face deportation. This decision is linked to her recent social media activity, where she voiced support for China's claim over Taiwan, amplifying tensions in the already sensitive cross-strait relationship.

Liu, who moved from mainland China to Taiwan on a dependent visa after marrying a Taiwanese citizen, found herself at the center of controversy after her videos went viral. She has been vocal in her belief that Taiwan is a “province of China,” asserting that “the complete unification of the motherland is a necessity,” and controversially suggesting that force may be a viable means of achieving it.

With the NIA stating that her public behavior undermines Taiwan's sovereignty, Liu is expected to vacate the island by March 24. Should she fail to comply, she faces forced removal and a significant ban on applying for another dependent visa for five years.

Liu has cultivated a following online, posting alongside her young daughter, and has openly rejected criticism of her stance, defending her right to express her views. However, her rhetoric has provoked backlash from Taiwanese officials, including Interior Minister Liu Shyh-fang, who emphasized that freedom of speech does not extend to promoting invasion.

Her case is part of a broader examination of the relationship between Taiwan and mainland China, particularly concerning the nearly 360,000 mainland spouses living in Taiwan. Increased scrutiny of these individuals reflects the Taiwanese government's concern over potential Chinese influence, which President Lai Ching-te recently labeled as a threat to national unity and stability.