Taiwan’s labor minister, Hung Sun-han, made a rare visit to China to attend an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) ministerial meeting on Monday, marking the first trip by a senior Taiwanese official to the mainland since President Lai Ching-te assumed office two years ago. The meeting took place in Nanjing, China, which is hosting APEC events this year.

Hung departed Taiwan on Sunday evening, arriving in the eastern Chinese city to participate in discussions ahead of the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting scheduled for November in Shenzhen. The gathering will be attended by heads of state including Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump. Hung's itinerary only includes engagements in Nanjing, with no plans to visit other Chinese cities, according to Taiwan’s labor ministry.

The visit comes amid continued tensions between Taiwan and China. Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has repeatedly threatened to use force if necessary to achieve unification. Since Lai’s election, China has labeled the Democratic Progressive Party leader an independence advocate and has suspended formal communication channels with Taipei for over a decade.

Despite these strained relations, China’s Taiwan Affairs Office confirmed earlier this month that Taiwan’s participation in APEC meetings would proceed under the “one-China principle.” Hung stated that his visit would adhere to “the existing pattern” and be conducted on the basis of “parity and dignity.” He emphasized the importance of APEC as a multilateral economic and trade forum where Taiwan can contribute by sharing its experience and expertise in labor and human resources issues.

Taiwan has been a full member of APEC since its establishment, distinguishing it from many other international organizations that exclude the island. Over the years, Taiwanese presidents have often sent special envoys to attend APEC summits in place of direct presidential participation.

While ministerial-level officials from Taiwan have previously attended various APEC meetings held in different locations in China, including a May 2026 visit by former trade negotiator Yang Jen-ni to Suzhou, Hung’s trip is notable for being the first senior government delegation visit since Lai’s presidency began.

The November APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting remains a focal point for regional economic cooperation and dialogue, and Taiwan’s inclusion underscores the island’s continued engagement in key international economic forums despite geopolitical challenges.