China’s Cash Bounty on Taiwanese Influencers Sparks Taiwan–China Rift

China has announced cash rewards of up to $35,000 for information leading to the arrest of two Taiwanese influencers accused of spreading “anti-China” content, a move that has intensified already strained Taiwan–China tensions. The announcement, made by police in China’s Fujian province, targets creators Wen Tzu-yu and Chen Po-yuan, whom authorities accuse of promoting Taiwan independence and “viciously attacking” Beijing’s policies toward the island.

Chinese officials alleged the pair acted as “accomplices of Taiwan independence” and urged the public to help track them down. The bounty offers range from 50,000 to 250,000 yuan ($7,000 to $35,225), depending on the value of the information provided.

Taiwan Dismisses the Move as Political Theatre

Taiwan responded sharply, calling the bounty a “so-called reward notice” that has no legal effect since Beijing has no jurisdiction over the self-governed island. Officials described the move as “just for show,” insisting it is another political maneuver ahead of growing regional tensions.

“Everyone knows the accusation is simply that they support Taiwan independence. For the CCP, such charges don’t require evidence,” said Liang Wen-chieh, deputy minister of Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council. He added that the reward system was designed to “create division and conflict” among Taiwanese citizens.

Documentary at the Center of the Dispute

While Chinese authorities did not specify which content triggered the charges, the action appears linked to a viral documentary uploaded last December. The film, created by influencer Wen Tzu-yu and featuring Chen Po-yuan, examined Beijing’s alleged strategy of offering free luxury trips and incentives to Taiwanese influencers to promote unification.

The two-part documentary was viewed millions of times and sparked uproar in Taiwan, especially among groups that oppose China’s growing influence in the island’s media landscape.

Beijing’s Increasing Pressure on Taiwanese Voices

This is not the first time China has acted against Taiwanese public figures. Last month, authorities opened an investigation into Puma Shen, a well-known Taiwanese lawmaker, accusing him of “separatist activities.” Beijing has previously sanctioned Shen over similar allegations.

The latest bounty offer underscores Beijing’s aggressive stance toward any form of pro-independence advocacy in Taiwan, which it considers an inseparable part of its territory.

Rising Friction Ahead of Key Geopolitical Moments

The development comes amid heightened military, political, and communication pressure from China. Beijing has not ruled out the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control, while Taiwan continues to strengthen ties with international allies who support its democratic governance.

As cross-strait relations deteriorate, experts believe actions like public bounties are intended to intimidate Taiwanese citizens and send a message to influencers, activists, and lawmakers alike.