INTRODUCTION Straits Exchange Foundation “Four Unchanged Commitments” National Sovereignty Status Quo of Peace and Stability Parity and Dignity, Healthy and Orderly Democratic and Free Way of Life
Straits Exchange Foundation Our History Organizational Structure Our Functions Key Service Highlights List of SEF Chairpersons and Secretaries-General Contact Us 2 4 6 13 17 19 Content
2 Straits Exchange Foundation Introduction Our History Cross-Strait relations are characterized by complexity, sensitivity, delicacy, and immense significance. In 1987, our government began allowing Taiwanese citizens to visit mainland China for family reunions, marking the start of crossStrait exchanges. However, due to the absence of direct official interactions between both sides, the government was unable to directly manage administrative matters from these exchanges. Consequently, it became necessary to delegate public authority to a civil organization that could act as an intermediary to handle such administrative affairs on the government's behalf. In March 1991, the government, together with several private individuals, jointly funded the establishment of the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF), appointing Mr. Koo Chenfu as its chairperson. In December of that same year, mainland China established a parallel organization called the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS), appointing Mr. Wang Daohan as chairman, to serve as the reciprocal institution to the SEF. The SEF is currently the sole organization established and operating under Article 4 of the Act Governing Relations between the People of the Taiwan Area and the Mainland Area. Authorized and commissioned by the government, we directly engage in communication and negotiation with mainland China on matters involving public authority, playing a crucial role in the government's system for managing cross-Strait affairs. Chairman Koo Chen-fu officiates SEF’s unveiling ceremony
3 Our History Formal contact and negotiations between the SEF and the ARATS commenced in 1991. In April 1993, the highest representatives of the cross-Strait organizations— Chairman Koo Chen-fu and Chairman Wang Daohan—held the Koo-Wang Talks in Singapore, during which they signed four agreements. Following this meeting, the two sides continued talks through this channel and gradually formed a mechanism for institutionalized cross-Strait negotiations. After President Tsai Ing-wen assumed office on May 20, 2016, the mainland side insisted that Taiwan accept the "1992 Consensus," which includes the "One China principle," as a political prerequisite. After Taiwan declined to accept this condition, mainland China unilaterally suspended official contacts and exchanges between the two cross-Strait organizations, bringing formal negotiations to a virtual standstill. Nevertheless, civilian exchanges and the SEF's exchange and service activities continued. In accordance with government directives and public needs, we remained in contact with relevant institutions and organizations in mainland China to provide essential assistance to Taiwanese citizens. During the global COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the SEF continued its document authentication services as usual; however, due to lockdowns and strict zero-COVID measures implemented by mainland China, cross-Strait document delivery faced significant delays. In response, we proactively reached out to relevant mainland authorities to negotiate flexible arrangements, ensuring uninterrupted service and safeguarding the rights and interests of the public to the greatest extent possible. Once pandemic restrictions began to ease in 2023, cross-Strait exchanges resumed, resulting in a significant increase in service requests handled by the SEF. To better facilitate services for people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, we dispatched staff to the Executive Yuan's Administrative Coordination Center for Handling Trial Operation of Transportation Links in Kinmen and Matsu in July and October 2024, respectively, to directly assist travelers crossing between Kinmen, Matsu, and mainland China via the mini-three-links, marking a new milestone in our service outreach efforts. The SEF, as the frontline organization within the government's mainland China affairs framework, is committed to upholding the Four Unchanged Commitments highlighted by President Lai Ching-te in his National Day speech in October 2024. These include the unwavering determination to defend national sovereignty, consistent efforts to hope for parity and dignity, healthy and orderly dialogue and exchanges between the two sides of the Strait, and an enduring dedication to protect our free and democratic way of life from one generation to the next. We aspire to proactively fulfill our mission in serving people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, support the government in continuously enhancing smooth and orderly exchange mechanisms, seize opportunities to restore cross-Strait dialogue, and work tirelessly to advance public interests and ensure cross-Strait peace and stability.
4 Straits Exchange Foundation Introduction Organizational Structure Board of Directors Chairperson Vice Chairperson Secretary-General Deputy Secretary-General Chief Secretary Department of Economic Affairs Department of Legal Affairs Department of Planning and Public Affairs Secretariat Personnel Office Accounting Office Department of Cultural Affairs SEF at Matsu Administrative Coordination Center SEF at Kinmen Administrative Coordination Center Central Taiwan Service Office Southern Taiwan Service Office
5 Organizational Structure According to the organizational charter of the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF), the Board of Directors functions as the decision-making body, comprising 43 to 53 directors tasked with responsibilities such as fundraising, and reviewing operational plans and budgets. Additionally, the SEF has six supervisors responsible for auditing funds, overseeing financial management, and supervising other related affairs. The SEF has one Chairperson who represents the foundation externally, one to three Vice-Chairpersons who assist the Chairperson in managing foundation affairs, and one Secretary-General responsible for overseeing general operations under the guidance of the Board of Directors. In addition, the SEF has one to three Deputy Secretaries-General and one Chief Secretary. Its organizational structure comprises the Department of Cultural Affairs, Department of Economic Affairs, Department of Legal Affairs, Department of Planning and Public Affairs, Secretariat, Personnel Office, and Accounting Office, each with designated functions. To offer document authentication and consultation services for citizens in central and southern Taiwan, the Southern Taiwan Service Office and Central Taiwan Service Office were established at the end of 1999 and mid-2003 respectively, co-located with the Executive Yuan's Southern Taiwan Joint Services Center and Central Taiwan Joint Services Center. Since 2024, SEF staff have been stationed at the Executive Yuan's Administrative Coordination Center for Handling Trial Operation of Transportation Links in Kinmen and Matsu to provide services for individuals traveling across the Strait via Kinmen and Matsu. Chairman Frank Wu delivers remarks at SEF’s board of directors and supervisors meeting
6 Straits Exchange Foundation Introduction Our Functions I.Negotiation From its inception, the Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) has been commissioned and authorized by the government to conduct cross-Strait negotiations. Until the suspension of communication between the cross-Strait organizations in July 1999, the SEF conducted a total of 27 negotiations and talks with the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS). These included the KooWang Talks, held in Singapore in April 1993, where four agreements were signed, and the Koo-Wang Meeting, held in Shanghai in October 1998, which facilitated constructive dialogue between the two sides. Negotiations were suspended in 1995, and contact between the two organizations ceased in July 1999. However, negotiations resumed in May 2008. Since 1990, the two organizations have signed a total of 27 agreements. Since May 20, 2016, mainland China has deliberately imposed political preconditions to obstruct official cross-Strait interactions, unilaterally terminating established communication and liaison channels for political reasons. Despite this, our side has continued to send official letters to the ARATS to address issues related to people's rights and interests in accordance with the Agreement on the System for Contacts and Meetings Between SEF and ARATS. These include locating missing persons, facilitating return home, cross-Strait entry and exit matters, personal safety concerns, recognition of academic credentials, economic and trade disputes, fishing disputes, crime prevention, housing demolition compensation, property encroachment, debt issues, inheritance and custody disputes, unsuccessful execution of a lawsuit, and verifying the living or deceased status of family members. Between May 20, 2016, and December 31, 2024, the SEF sent a total of 10,143 official letters to the ARATS. At present, although mainland China has delayed certain issues pertaining to the agreements that have been signed and come into effect between both sides, relevant agencies on our side have continued to enforce the agreed-upon matters. The SEF remains actively engaged in preparedness work and, under the government's instructions and authorization, engages in communication and negotiations with the ARATS under the precondition that our national sovereignty and free democratic constitutional system are upheld. Koo-Wang Talks
7 Our Functions Cross-Strait Agreements: 1. Kinmen Accord (Sept. 12, 1990) 2. Joint Statement of the Koo-Wang Talks (April 29, 1993) 3. Agreement on the System for Contacts and Meetings Between SEF and ARATS (April 29, 1993) 4. Agreement on Matters Concerning Inquiry and Compensation for (Lost) Registered Mail Across the Taiwan Straits (April 29, 1993) 5. Agreement on Use and Verification of Certificates of Authentication Across the Taiwan Straits (April 29, 1993) 6. Cross-Strait Agreement Concerning Mainland Tourists Traveling to Taiwan (June 13, 2008) 7. SEF-ARATS Minutes of Talks on Cross-Strait Charter Flights (June 13, 2008) 8. Cross-Strait Postal Service Cooperation Agreement (November 4, 2008) 9. Cross-Strait Food Safety Agreement (November 4, 2008) 10. Cross-Strait Sea Transport Agreement (November 4, 2008) 11. Cross-Strait Air Transport Agreement (November 4, 2008) 12. Cross-Strait Air Transport Supplementary Agreement (April 26, 2009) 13. Cross-Strait Financial Cooperation Agreement (April 26, 2009) 14. Cross-Strait Joint Crime-Fighting and Judicial Mutual Assistance Agreement (April 26, 2009) 15. Cross-Strait Agreement on Cooperation in Respect of Standards, Metrology, Inspection, and Accreditation (December 22, 2009) 16. Cross-Strait Agreement on Cooperation in Inspection and Quarantine of Agricultural Products (December 22, 2009) 17. Cross-Strait Agreement on Cooperation in Fishing Crew Affairs (December 22, 2009) 18. Cross-Strait Agreement on Intellectual Property Right Protection and Cooperation (June 29, 2010) 19. Cross-Strait Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (June 29, 2010) Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between Red Cross Society of the Republic of China and Red Cross Society of China Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS
8 Straits Exchange Foundation Introduction II.Exchanges and Services Cultural Exchanges and Services ● Cultural and Enterprise Visits: We organize themed visits across Taiwan to provide mainland Chinese students with deeper insights into Taiwan's cultural and industrial landscape to foster greater understanding and connection. ● Campus Engagement and Policy Coordination: We partner with campus student assistance offices to advocate for issues such as health insurance inclusion and internship rights, ensuring effective policy implementation and fostering a supportive learning environment for mainland Chinese students. Mainland Chinese students visit Luodong Forestry Culture Park in Yilan 20. Cross-Strait Agreement on Medical and Health Cooperation (Dec. 21, 2010) 21. Cross-Strait Agreement on Nuclear Power Safety Cooperation (Oct. 20, 2011) 22. Cross-Strait Bilateral Investment Protection and Promotion Agreement (Aug. 9, 2012) 23. Cross-Strait Customs Cooperation Agreement (Aug. 9, 2012) 24. Cross-Strait Service Trade Agreement (process not yet completed) (June 21, 2013) 25. Cross-Strait Collaboration Agreement on Meteorology (Feb. 27, 2014) 26. Cross-Strait Collaboration Agreement on Seismological Monitoring (Feb. 27, 2014) 27. Cross-Strait Collaboration Agreement on Flight Safety and Airworthiness (Aug. 25, 2015) 28. Cross-Strait Agreement on Avoidance of Double Taxation and Enhancement of Tax Cooperation (process not yet completed) (Aug. 25, 2015) Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Signed between SEF and ARATS Mainland Chinese Student Services
9 Our Functions ● Emergency Response: We implement a rapid response mechanism for unexpected security incidents to ensure mainland Chinese students receive timely assistance. Taiwanese Students/Taiwanese Youth Services ● Service Network Establishment: We develop contact points in areas where Taiwanese students and youth gather in mainland China to create a rapid response network for providing emergency support and timely assistance. ● Study Camps and Exchange Activities: We organize diverse programs that inform Taiwanese students and youth about regulations and potential risks, facilitate experience-sharing among peers, and enhance their awareness of the situation in mainland China. Services and Education Support for Children of Taiwanese Nationals ● Summer, Winter, and Discovery Camps: We offer diverse camp programs to enhance the understanding and experience of Taiwanese culture for children of Taiwanese nationals residing in mainland China. Summer and winter camps primarily cater to elementary school students, while discovery camps are oriented toward middle and high school students. ● Building a Communication Platform for Teachers and Staff of Schools for the Children of Taiwanese Businesspeople: Currently, three such schools are approved by the Ministry of Education—Taiwan Businessmen’s Dongguan School, HuaDong Taiwan Businessman's School, and Shanghai Taiwanese Children's School. We've created a communication platform for teachers and staff at these schools to provide support in addressing issues tied to school development. Emergency Support and Accident Assistance ● Emergency Service Hotline: A dedicated emergency service hotline at (02) 2533-9995 operates daily from 08:30 to 20:30 to assist with urgent cases concerning personal safety on both sides of the Strait. ● Assistance for Cross-Strait Travel Incidents: We provide support for emergencies during cross-Strait travel, including lost documents, injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. A 12-hour Emergency Service Hotline is available, and we collaborate closely with Taiwanese Business Associations and organizations of travel agents to offer swift assistance in major emergencies. Opening ceremony of summer camp for children of Taiwan businesspeople
10 Straits Exchange Foundation Introduction Trade Exchanges and Services Taiwanese Business Liaison Services ● Helping Taiwanese Businesses Overcome Challenges: We host networking events and discussion forums for Taiwanese businesses in mainland China during major holidays to gather their insights, address concerns, and offer solutions to pressing issues. ● Activities for Taiwanese Businesses in Mainland China to Invest in Taiwan: We arrange tours to various counties, cities, and research institutions to provide insights into the investment landscape and the latest industrial developments in Taiwan. ● Creating a Global Exchange Platform for Taiwanese Businesses: We invite representatives from the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce and Asia Taiwanese Chambers Of Commerce to participate in events, fostering international networking opportunities, and supporting Taiwanese businesses in mainland China with global expansion. ● Offering Professional Consultation: We engage experts in cross-Strait affairs, legal and financial specialists, and former leaders of Taiwanese business organizations in mainland China to serve as advisors. We also regularly host events such as Taiwanese Business Consultation Days and Cross-Strait Economic and Trade Seminars to provide free professional guidance and support. Ensuring Taiwanese Businesspeople's Safety and Resolving Cross-Strait Trade Disputes ● Dedicated Services for Taiwanese Businesspeople: A Taiwanese Businesspeople Service Hotline is available at (02) 2533-7995, and dedicated assistance can also be accessed through the Emergency Service Hotline. ● Assisting with Taiwanese Businesspeople’s Safety Incidents: In emergency cases that affect the personal safety of Taiwanese businesspeople in mainland China, we provide support by expressing concern for the individuals and their families, requesting assistance from the ARATS, and coordinating with local Taiwanese business organizations to offer necessary aid. ● Trade Dispute Assistance: Taiwanese businesses facing trade disputes in mainland China can seek support by submitting requests to the SEF. Additionally, financial and legal consultants specializing in cross-Strait affairs are available to provide professional guidance. For P-G investment disputes between Taiwanese businesses and the PRC government, the Ministry of Economic Affairs' Department of Investment Promotion is involved, utilizing the administrative coordination mechanism under the Cross-Strait Bilateral Investment Protection and Promotion Agreement to address the issue. Taiwan businesspeople in mainland China explore green energy technology investment opportunities in Taiwan
11 Our Functions Managing Fishing Disputes and Maritime Fishing Boat Accidents ● Reporting and Aftermath Assistance: In cases of fishery disputes, fishing vessel collisions, unauthorized entry of mainland Chinese vessels into Taiwan’s waters, or maritime accidents involving crew casualties across the Strait, we coordinate with the ARATS in search and rescue efforts, notify family members, and provide support in handling aftermath matters. Legal Exchanges and Services Cross-Strait Document Authentication ● Cross-Strait Document Authentication Services: Commissioned by the government, we undertake cross-Strait document authentication. In 1993, we signed the Agreement on Use and Verification of Certificates of Authentication Across the Taiwan Straits with the ARATS, establishing a systematic mechanism for verifying notarized documents through mutual exchange of copies for authentication. ● Authentication of Documents for Urgent CrossStrait Incidents: In collaboration with the China Notary Association and notary organizations in 31 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities, we have established designated liaisons and an emergency contact and coordination mechanism. In the event of urgent incidents across the Strait, we promptly coordinate with relevant notary institutions on both sides to facilitate notarization and authentication, ensuring the protection of the rights and interests of affected individuals and their families. Cross-Strait Document Delivery ● Judicial Document Delivery Service: Following the enforcement of the CrossStrait Joint Crime-Fighting and Judicial Mutual Assistance Agreement, the SEF, entrusted by the government, facilitates the mutual service of judicial document delivery between Taiwan and mainland China. Operating under the Ministry of Justice Cross-Strait Document Delivery Center, it coordinates matters with the PRC Supreme People's Court of the People's Republic of China and its authorized High People's Courts across provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities, as well as the Supreme People's Procuratorate and its authorized provinciallevel People's Procuratorates. SEF volunteer explains the document authentication process
12 Straits Exchange Foundation Introduction ● Administrative Document Delivery: Entrusted by the Mainland Affairs Council (MAC), we facilitate the delivery of administrative documents, such as administrative appeal decisions, notices for assessment of tax, and payment notices, from Taiwan’s administrative agencies to mainland China. Crime Prevention and Personal Safety Assistance ● Helping Taiwanese Nationals with Restricted Personal Freedom in Mainland China: Following the enforcement of the Cross-Strait Joint Crime-Fighting and Judicial Mutual Assistance Agreement, the Ministry of Justice oversees cross-Strait crime prevention and personal safety matters. However, some Taiwanese nationals still seek assistance from the SEF regarding relatives detained in mainland China, and we help by coordinating efforts to clarify case details, ensuring fair trials, and assisting with requests for sentence reductions or parole. Upon receiving a petition for assistance, we provide consultation services and, depending on the circumstances, either formally request the ARATS to facilitate assistance or forward the petition to the relevant authorities to protect the rights of Taiwanese nationals. Cross-Strait Marriage and Family Support Services ● Establishing a Communication Platform for Real-time Support: We create communication networks with numerous mainland Chinese spouse groups across Taiwan, ensuring continuous contact, and forming a comprehensive support system. Mainland Chinese spouses in Taiwan who need urgent assistance can reach out through the network to receive timely support, safeguard their rights, and facilitate their smooth integration into Taiwanese society. ● Enhancing Support Services Via Innovative Activities: We hold diverse events to support cross-Strait marriage families, foster engagement, and address their needs and concerns. Beyond actively visiting various new immigrant groups and mainland Chinese spouses across different parts of Taiwan, we also invite them to visit the SEF for face-to-face interactions and exchanges. Public Petition and Consultation Services ● Petition Support Services: When Taiwanese nationals face issues such as housing demolition compensation, inheritance disputes, custody battles, or unsuccessful execution of a lawsuit, we actively communicate with the ARATS through official crossStrait channels to help safeguard their rights and interests. ● Legal Consultation Services: A Legal Service Hotline at (02) 2533-5995 is available to assist those who cannot visit the SEF in person on matters like document authentication, marriage, immigration, and other legal matters. To protect the rights of Taiwanese nationals, experienced lawyers specializing in cross-Strait laws offer free legal consultations at the SEF headquarters, Central Taiwan Service Center, and Southern Taiwan Service Center. Mid-Autumn Festival activity for cross-Strait marriage families
13 Key Service Highlights Key Service Highlights Managing Major Cross-Strait Incidents In the course of cross-Strait exchanges and interactions, unforeseen incidents may occur. The SEF remains committed to mediating conflicts and managing their aftermath. For instance, on February 14, 2024, an unidentified mainland Chinese vessel entered restricted waters near Kinmen and engaged in illegal fishing. After refusing inspection, the boat capsized, resulting in two fatalities by drowning. Following directives from the Mainland Affairs Council (MAC), we formally notified the ARATS to provide details of the incident and crew information while expressing regret over the unfortunate event. We also facilitated entry procedures for mainland Chinese family members and relevant personnel, dispatched staff to Kinmen, and offered humanitarian support and necessary assistance. During negotiations between the two sides, we coordinated visits to Kinmen multiple times alongside representatives from the MAC and Coast Guard Administration. After both sides signed the meeting minutes on subsequent arrangements, we worked with the relevant authorities to promptly complete the notarization of death certificates. Furthermore, after major incidents such as the Hualien earthquake on February 6, 2018, which resulted in injuries and fatalities among mainland Chinese tourists, and the Yangtze Three Gorges rockslide accident on October 15, 2017, where Taiwanese travelers were affected, we immediately initiated the emergency response mechanisms upon receiving the news and coordinated with relevant agencies to assist families in managing the aftermath and making necessary arrangements. 北東晟旅行社長江三峽旅行團落 Assisting Taiwanese Nationals Stranded in Mainland China During the Pandemic Following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, we maintained close communication with Taiwanese business associations in mainland China, urging them to assist stranded Taiwanese nationals by providing emergency medical supplies and essential materials. We also compiled and distributed pandemic prevention information to support Taiwanese businesses in mainland China. One notable case in 2020 involved a child with severe hemophilia who traveled to Hubei with his mother to visit relatives before the outbreak. As the pandemic escalated, they became stranded and faced a critical situation due to a shortage of essential medication. We coordinated with relevant authorities to secure the necessary specialized medication and worked with domestic airlines and several Taiwanese business association leaders to facilitate its delivery. Through these joint efforts, the medication was successfully relayed and reached the child in time. Additionally, to assist in the return of Taiwanese nationals stranded in mainland China due to the pandemic, we helped coordinate seven charter flights to bring them back to Taiwan following government directives. We also established a dedicated hotline to provide support, facilitate communication, and assist with flight reservations. Charter flights arranged during the pandemic to bring our nationals back to Taiwan
14 Straits Exchange Foundation Introduction Ensuring the Operation of University Entrance Exam Test Centers in Mainland China During the pandemic, we worked diligently to ensure the university entrance exam test centers in mainland China operated smoothly while adhering to prevention and control protocols. From the transportation of examination papers to the arrangement of examination staff, we collaborated closely with mainland Taiwanese business associations, Taiwanese schools, and relevant authorities to ensure smooth operations for customs clearance, quarantine procedures, and accommodations. This helped ease the financial burden on examinees and their parents while providing comprehensive logistical support for examination staff. Moreover, we helped establish a video interview scheme for exam centers in mainland China to ensure that children of Taiwanese businesspeople could smoothly participate in Taiwan’s diverse university admission programs. This measure effectively minimized the risks associated with traveling back to Taiwan for examinations. Facilitating the Resumption of Cross-Strait Flights and Destinations As pandemic restrictions eased, Taiwanese businesspeople urged the resumption of direct cross-Strait flights. We actively gathered their feedback and needs, promptly relaying them to the relevant authorities for consideration. Through joint endeavors by all parties, the MAC announced on March 9, 2023, the resumption of 10 regular flight routes and 13 charter flight destinations, with a total of 209 weekly flights (110 from Taiwan and 99 from mainland China). This development has helped gradually restore cross-Strait exchanges and visits among individuals and civil organizations while also accommodating the travel demands of Taiwanese businesspeople. Immediate Assistance for Emergency Situations Involving Taiwanese and Mainland Chinese Students We created WeChat and LINE group chats to connect Taiwanese and mainland Chinese students with counseling staff at various schools, offering real-time information and emergency support services. For instance, following the Taroko express train accident in 2021, we used the group chat system to promptly track the condition of a mainland Chinese student who sustained minor injuries and provided necessary follow-up assistance. Additionally, during the pandemic, we assisted Taiwanese students who were unable to return to mainland China for their studies by facilitating applications to continue their education in Taiwan. We also provided document authentication and consultation services as needed. Promoting Insurance Subsidy and Coverage Policies for Mainland Chinese Students To alleviate the healthcare burden on mainland Chinese students, we launched the first commercial medical insurance subsidy program in 2023, commissioned by the government and supported through special project funding. Moreover, in preparation for the inclusion of mainland Chinese students in Taiwan's National Health Insurance system in February 2024, we organized training camps in 2023 by inviting relevant agencies to explain practical procedures and assist in promoting the new policy.
15 Key Service Highlights SEF assists stranded nationals in mainland China return to Taiwan Facilitating Urgent Entry for Mainland Chinese Relatives on Illness or Funeral Visits When mainland Chinese citizens need to urgently travel to Taiwan to visit a critically ill relative or attend a family member’s funeral, we assist in expediting the necessary procedures as guided by humanitarian principles. According to regulations, applicants must provide the original notarized kinship certificate, which must be authenticated by the SEF. However, given the extended time required for document copies to be delivered from mainland China to Taiwan, we proactively engage the National Immigration Agency (NIA) of the Ministry of the Interior before receiving the copies. This ensures that the necessary procedures are expedited, allowing individuals to arrive in Taiwan in time to handle urgent matters. This approach demonstrates our flexibility in responding to special situations and our commitment to humanitarian support. Assisting Economically Distressed Taiwanese Nationals Stranded in Mainland China to Return Home In recent years, numerous Taiwanese nationals have faced hardships due to old age, illness, or financial difficulties, leaving them stranded and homeless in mainland China. Upon receiving a report, we coordinate with relevant agencies and organizations on both sides of the Strait to provide necessary assistance based on each case’s circumstances. This support may include basic living aid, medical care, and assistance with follow-up arrangements. For individuals suffering from serious illnesses without a caregiver or in cases of unfortunate deaths, we work with relevant agencies and organizations on both sides of the Strait to provide essential living and medical assistance based on specific circumstances. If individuals have no financial support from relatives or friends upon returning to Taiwan, we cooperate with county and city governments, along with social welfare organizations, to secure proper accommodation and continuous medical care.
16 Straits Exchange Foundation Introduction Assisting Mainland Chinese Citizens in Returning Home Mainland Chinese citizens who are unable to return home due to expired, lost, or damaged documents, or newborn children in Taiwan without valid identification, receive active assistance from the SEF. We coordinate with relevant authorities, including mainland Chinese agencies, specialized operation brigades and detention centers under the NIA, and airline and shipping companies, to ensure timely support for their return. During the pandemic, the number of mainland Chinese citizens stranded in Taiwan who were unable to return home increased significantly. As restrictions eased, many sought assistance from the SEF, and we actively facilitated their return, ensuring that all cases were successfully resolved. Travel Advisory Alerts and Risk Awareness With evolving cross-Strait relations and the CCP’s expansion of national security regulations, the MAC upgraded its travel alert for mainland China to orange in June 2024. Taiwanese citizens were advised to avoid non-essential travel, and an Online Registration System for Taiwanese Citizens Visiting Mainland China was established. We continuously update and publish the Mainland China Travel Safety Handbook, which includes risk alerts and response strategies. We also set up information booths at travel fairs to provide safety guidance and consultation services. Through these initiatives, we not only raise public awareness of travel safety but also bolster exchange and cooperation among cross-Strait tourism operators, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of travel experiences. SEF booth at Taiwan International Tourism Expo
17 List of SEF Chairpersons and Secretaries-General List of SEF Chairpersons and SecretariesGeneral List of SEF Chairpersons Title Name Term of Office 1st Chairperson Koo Chen-fu November 21, 1990 to January 3, 2005 2nd Chairperson Chang Chun-hsiung June 10, 2005 to May 21, 2007 3rd Chairperson Hung Chi-chang July 12, 2007 to May 19, 2008 4th Chairperson Chiang Pin-kung May 26, 2008 to September 27, 2012 5th Chairperson Lin Join-sane September 27, 2012 to May 19, 2016 6th Chairperson Tien Hung-mao September 12, 2016 to March 27, 2018 7th Chairperson Katharine Chang March 27, 2018 to June 5, 2020 8th Chairperson David Lee June 5, 2020 to August 3, 2020 9th Chairperson David Lee February 14, 2023 to June 7, 2024 10th Chairperson Cheng Wen-tsan June 7, 2024 to July 7, 2024 11th Chairperson Frank Wu Incumbent since November 4, 2024
18 Straits Exchange Foundation Introduction List of SEF Secretaries-General Title Name Term of Office 1st Secretary-General C.V. Chen November 21, 1990 to November 19, 1991 2nd Secretary-General Chen Rong-jye November 19, 1991 to February 1, 1993 3rd Secretary-General Chiu Chin-yi March 11, 1993 to December 1, 1993 4th Secretary-General Chiao Jen-ho December 2, 1993 to February 7, 1998 5th Secretary-General Shi Hwei-yow February 7, 1998 to May 19, 2004 6th Secretary-General Johnnason Liu July 29, 2004 to August 11, 2005 7th Secretary-General Michael You August 11, 2005 to May 19, 2008 8th Secretary-General Kao Koong-lian May 26, 2008 to February 6, 2014 9th Secretary-General Chang Hsien-yao March 7, 2014 to September 17, 2014 10th Secretary-General Shih Hui-fen September 17, 2014 to May 19, 2016 11th Secretary-General Jacob Chang September 12, 2016 to December 30, 2016 12th Secretary-General Ko Cheng-heng January 1, 2017 to March 15, 2018 13th Secretary-General Yao Jen-to July 9, 2018 to June 4, 2020 14th Secretary-General Jan Jyh-horng August 28, 2020 to February 14, 2023 15th Secretary-General Chiu Chui-cheng February 14, 2023 to May 19, 2024 16th Secretary-General Luo Wen-jia Incumbent since June 7, 2024
19 Contact Us Contact Us SEF Headquarters Emergency Service Hotline 02-2533-9995 We provide year-round consultation services and assistance for personal safety incidents occurring in mainland China, including death, serious illness, severe injury, kidnapping for ransom, detention, disappearance, and loss of travel documents. Legal Service Hotline 02-2533-5995 (1) We provide cross-Strait document verification, authentication, and related consultation services. (2) We operate a pro-bono lawyer team at the SEF headquarters, Central Taiwan Service Center, and Southern Taiwan Service Center to provide cross-Strait legal consultation services. Taiwanese Businessmen Service Hotline 02-2533-7995 We provide emergency assistance for Taiwanese businesspeople in mainland China, including safety and emergency relief, trade dispute resolution, professional consultation, and liaison services. Reach Us at 02-2175-7000 Our main public contact number for inquiries and support related to cross-Strait matters.
20 Straits Exchange Foundation Introduction SEF Headquarters Address: No. 536, Beian Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City 104244 Tel: 02-2175-7000 Fax: 02-2175-7100 SEF Central Taiwan Service Office Address: 1F, No. 95, Gancheng Street, Nantun District, Taichung City 408013 Tel: 04-2254-8108 Fax: 04-2254-8643 SEF Southern Taiwan Service Office Address: 6F, No. 6, Zhengnan St., Lingya District, Kaohsiung City 802304 Tel: 07-213-5245 Fax: 07-715-5100 SEF at Kinmen Administrative Coordination Center Address: 4F, No. 5, Xihai Road Section 1, Jincheng Township, Kinmen County 893017 Tel: 082-311-182 Fax: 082-311-582 SEF at Matsu Administrative Coordination Center Address: 3F, No. 135-6, Fuao Village, Nangan Township, Lienchiang County 20941 Tel: 0836-22265 Fax: 0836-22275 SEF Email: service@sef.org.tw SEF Official Website Cross-Strait Economic and Trade Website SEF Facebook Page Online Registration System for Taiwanese Citizens Visiting Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao
Address: No. 536, Beian Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City 104244 Tel : (02)2175-7000 Emergency Service Hotline : (02)2533-9995 Fax: (02)2175-7100 SEF Official Website: www.sef.org.tw SEF Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/seftaiwan
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