Rising Airfares Boost Prospects for Cross-Strait Ferry Service Resumption

The cross-strait maritime passenger service, which has remained suspended since the COVID-19 pandemic, could experience renewed demand if operations resume, according to Guo Dawei, general manager of Strait Friendship Group's Fujian subsidiary. Speaking to China Review News on June 18, Guo highlighted that the Haixia ferry, which once connected Taiwan's main island directly to Pingtan, enjoyed high passenger loads due to its affordability and speed. With recent increases in airfare prices driven by geopolitical tensions, he believes the maritime route would attract significant passenger numbers if regulators approve its restart.

The Haixia, a high-speed roll-on/roll-off passenger and cargo vessel, previously operated routes connecting Pingtan directly to Taipei, Taichung, and even Kaohsiung before operations ceased in 2020 during the pandemic. The vessel covered the Taichung-Pingtan route—approximately 88 nautical miles—in just 2.5 hours, while the Taipei-Pingtan journey required about three hours. At approximately 3,000 New Taiwan dollars per one-way ticket, the service offered significantly better value than air travel. Passengers arriving at Pingtan could seamlessly connect to mainland China's express rail and high-speed rail networks, enabling rapid transit across Chinese provinces.

During its peak operations, the Haixia ran two daily sailings that consistently filled to capacity, underscoring strong demand for affordable, time-efficient cross-strait transportation. The suspension caused inconvenience to frequent travelers and reduced transportation options between the two sides. While cargo service on the route resumed in mid-2023, passenger operations have remained halted, depriving travelers of a previously vital connection. The Strait Friendship Group has submitted repeated applications to Taiwan authorities seeking approval to resume passenger service, but these requests remain pending.

Guo expressed optimism about future prospects, noting that post-pandemic growth in cross-strait civil and economic exchanges, combined with elevated airfare costs from international geopolitical conflicts, creates favorable conditions for maritime passenger service revival. He urged Taiwan's regulatory authorities to reassess market conditions and recognize passenger demand, allowing the once-vibrant ferry route to resume serving cross-strait travelers with affordable and convenient transportation.