UK increases sales of submarine parts to Taiwan

In 2022 alone, 25 export licenses were approved by the British government; The move could strain relations with China

The UK has approved a major increase in exports of submarine parts and technology to Taiwan by 2022. The move could affect the country’s economic ties with China, which considers the island part of its territory.

According to information from Reuters, from January to September 2022 alone, the British government awarded companies for the export of technical parts and components to Taiwan was worth US$ 201 million (about R$ 1.04 billion according to current quotes). This figure is more than what was spent in the previous 6 years.

The move could strain Britain’s relationship with China, which believes exports of the parts signal support for Taiwan’s recognition as an independent state.

In the Declaration ReutersChinese Foreign Ministry said “If this is true, it is a serious violation of One China policy, undermines China’s sovereignty and security interests, and undermines peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.”

In a statement, a British government spokesman said it has a history of issuing export licenses to Taiwan, but applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis and meet requirements. “Arms and Dual Use Items Export Rules”.

And he added: “The Taiwan issue must be resolved peacefully by people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait through constructive dialogue without threats or the use of force or coercion.”