TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — KMT lawmakers have introduced draft amendments to the Offshore Islands Development Act that would permit free trade zones on Taiwan’s outlying islands to boost trade relations with China.

The legislation, introduced by Legislator Chen Yu-jen (陳玉珍), has been criticized for promoting Beijing’s “one country, two systems” framework. The amendments were submitted for consideration to the Legislative Yuan on Dec. 2 and may be put forward for a second and third reading in the coming weeks, reported LTN.

The draft amendments would delegate greater authority to county and city governments on outlying islands to create so-called “Free Trade Demonstration Zones.” The amendment stipulates that local officials would form committees with the central government to manage regulations for business licenses, zoning measures, and entry and exit permits for Chinese individuals and organizations operating commercially in the zones.

In recent years, China has devoted significant attention and resources to integrating Taiwan’s outlying islands, especially Kinmen and Lienchiang counties, into its sphere of economic influence. Opponents say Chen’s proposed amendments would further Beijing’s plans for a Fujian Cross-Strait Integration and Development Demonstration Zone.

Proponents of the legislation say the measures would increase employment and improve livelihoods on the outlying islands. KMT lawmakers argue that due to differing economic conditions between the main island of Taiwan and the outlying islands, local authorities should have greater latitude in managing trade relations with China.