Mainland tourists spent US$1.3m in Taiwan

Tourists visiting Taiwan from mainland China have spent US$1.3 million during their trips so far, according to one "conservative estimate," Reuters reported, citing Taiwan media. The 762 tourists visited Taiwan for eight days after arriving on the first direct weekend chartered flights between the mainland and Taiwan. The tourists favored made-in-Taiwan souvenirs, Louis Vuitton handbags and other luxury merchandise. Last week, Taiwan’s top negotiator with the mainland said improved ties with Beijing could lessen the impact on Taiwan’s economy of a global slowdown.