Taiwan award recognition sparked controversy at an international tea competition in Paris after Chinese embassy staff interrupted the ceremony. On December 2, the Agency for the Valorization of Agricultural Products (AVPA) honored Hsieh Chung-lin, chief executive of Juxin Tea Factory. He won for his Huagang Snow Source Tea. The ceremony took place at the Peruvian embassy and included producers from the United States, Japan, and Sri Lanka.
During the award presentation, two Chinese embassy officials shouted that “Taiwan is just a province of China” and “Taiwan is part of China.” Organizers ignored the disruption, and attendees applauded Hsieh while booing the protestors.
Hsieh said the incident showed global recognition of Taiwan’s achievements. Many attendees mentioned Taiwan’s COVID-19 response during discussions. He added that participants advised him to focus on product excellence rather than protests.
Hsieh’s family-run tea business dates back a century and originates in Nantou County’s Songboling area. He is the fifth generation of tea producers, with plantations in Lishan, Dayuling, and Fushou Mountain. The award honors both quality and heritage.
In Taipei, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Hsiao Kuang-wei criticized the embassy staffers’ behavior. He urged Chinese officials to follow international etiquette. Hsiao also said Beijing should engage Taiwan respectfully and recognize its achievements.
AVPA hosts the Teas of the World International Contest annually. Founded in 2005, it attracts more than 700 producers worldwide. The contest celebrates quality, innovation, and agricultural heritage in tea production.
The incident drew diplomatic attention and highlighted ongoing tensions between Taiwan and China in international cultural events. Experts noted such disruptions can inadvertently raise awareness of Taiwan’s global contributions.
Taiwan award ceremonies now carry both cultural and diplomatic significance. Analysts suggest organizers strengthen security measures to prevent interruptions and protect the integrity of recognition.
