Memphis Standard

U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn and Brian Schatz have introduced the Taiwan Travel and Tourism Coordination Act, aiming to enhance security screenings for travelers from Asia to the United States, open new markets for American industries, and strengthen economic ties with Taiwan.

Senator Blackburn emphasized the need for increased security measures due to threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). "Not only does the Chinese Communist Party present a threat to Taiwan, but Communist China’s campaign for global dominance also presents a clear threat to U.S. interests," she stated. The legislation seeks to require Customs and Border Protection officers to inspect travelers coming from Asian airports as part of enhanced security measures.

Senator Schatz highlighted Taiwan's importance as a partner in the Indo-Pacific region. "Taiwan is a key partner in the Indo-Pacific, and boosting our ties strengthens both Taiwan and the United States," he said. He noted that this bill would create more economic opportunities for people in Taiwan, Hawaii, and across the United States.

The proposed act comes against a backdrop where Taiwan faces increasing pressure from the CCP. The bill outlines strategic efforts to transform these challenges into opportunities by enhancing travel between the U.S. and Taiwan and supporting their tourism industries.

A significant aspect of this initiative is establishing pre-clearance facilities in Asia—strategically placing Customs and Border Protection personnel at foreign airports to inspect travelers before they board flights bound for the U.S., which aims to improve security, collaboration, and streamline travel processes.

Specifically, the act mandates identifying opportunities for enhanced travel between both nations; facilitating coordination among travel industry partners; ensuring safety of international visitors; and conducting feasibility studies on setting up pre-clearance facilities in Taiwan.