Matsu folks with big bags and small bags quickly clear customs and set off for home. [Photo/Fujian Daily]

In the Huangqi Passenger Terminal departure hall at Fuzhou Port, travelers can now put carry-on luggage into a single device that combines security checks and customs checks while accept the personal security check and body temperature test at the same time – a streamlined process that enables outbound inspections to be completed in under a minute.

This is a result of recent changes. On Dec 31, after equipment upgrades and improvements, port authorities implemented measures to ease customs clearance at Fujian's "Mini Three Links" ports.

The authorities, including Fuzhou Customs, have introduced a joint supervision approach combining security and customs checks in one, boosting convenience for Taiwan travelers.

Residents like Mr. Chan from Matsu have praised the smoother customs checks. Previously, separate security and customs checks caused delays and hassles. With the new "two checks combined in one checks" model, returning home has become much simpler.

The recent upgrade of inspection equipment and software integration at Langqi and Huangqi ports is said to mark a significant step towards promoting unified inspections across departments.

The enhanced devices feature document reading, facial recognition and more, rolling security and customs processes into one efficient step.

With the exception of rare cases requiring luggage inspections, passengers can now complete the entire process seamlessly, reducing the processing time by 50 percent.

In a circular issued in September 2023, China expressed support for Fujian to explore new paths for cross-Strait integration and establish a demonstration zone for this purpose. This initiative aims to deepen integration between Fuzhou, capital of Fujian province and Matsu in Taiwan, creating a "same-city living circle" between the two regions.

Statistics showed that in 2024, Fuzhou Customs provided services for 64,969 inbound and outbound passenger trips using the Fujian-Matsu "Mini Three Links", marking a hefty 75.08 percent year-on-year increase.