China and Taiwan could never reach an agreement on running the torch relay through Taiwan, but they have at least now agreed to start charter flights between the two sides of the strait. Currently if you want to fly to Taiwan from China you need to fly through Hong Kong, adding several hours to any journey.

Taiwan is the biggest investor in China and the opening up of flights is only going to increase economic activity between China and Taiwan. There is also increasing demand from mainland China residents wanting to visit Taiwan. Taiwan now allows Chinese currency to be exchanged in the country.