A Vietnamese trade representative to Taipei rebutted allegations yesterday that Chinese agricultural products have been imported into Taiwan via Vietnam and demanded supporting evidence.
Ho Quoc Phi, deputy head of the Vietnam Economic and Cultural Office in Taipei (VECO), told CNA that the allegations have formed a major barrier to the import of Vietnamese goods into Taiwan, even though he has already clarified the situation to Taiwan's top agricultural authority.
He admitted that there were cases of smuggled Chinese farm produce being brought into Taiwan through Vietnam, including tea, cigarettes and garlic, in 1991, but pointed out that "those involved in those acts could not get Vietnamese certificates of origin."
His remarks came after lawmakers recently leveled the accusation and said that a Vietnamese certificate of origin can be bought for less than US$350.
Ho urged the lawmakers to provide a copy of the counterfeit document to his office, so that its authenticity can be checked.
He also expressed doubt that any Vietnamese official would issue counterfeit certificates of origin, as they would face serious punishment.
No Chinese imports into Taiwan via Vietnam: envoy
A Vietnamese trade representative to Taipei rebutted allegations that Chinese agricultural products have been imported into Taiwan via Vietnam.
Source: Taiwan News
