China has banned more than 2,000 Taiwan food imports amid Pelosi's visit as Beijing steps up trade weaponization

Thousands of food imports from Taiwan have been banned by China.

China's customs department said in a statement on Wednesday that it has stopped imports of some fish and fruit because they have tested positive for excessive pesticide levels.

While China did not link the ban to Pelosi's visit, the timing of the move has raised questions. According to a statement viewed by Insider, the import suspension is politically motivated.

A review of Chinese customs data shows that China banned more than 2,000 Taiwanese food imports, including fresh produce, baby food, candy, and pastries. There were no reasons given for the suspension. The ban was put in place on Monday.

Taiwan will not be intimidated by China's weaponization of trade according to a lawmaker from the ruling party.

China has a history of imposing restrictions on other countries. China imposed import restrictions on Australian products in 2020 as Beijing was displeased with the country over a number of issues.

China has previously banned products from Taiwan. When tensions between the two territories rose, China banned fruit and vegetables from the island. This time, the ban is much larger.

The deputy chair of Taiwan's policymaking said that in the past, China hit single products from the primary sector such as specific fruit or fish, that way, they kept the overall macroeconomic impact on Taiwan limited.

Chiu said that they are broadening this immensely as they are targeting processed foods.

The majority of Taiwan's total exports are dominated by machinery and electrical parts.