Fuzhou Langqi Passenger Terminal. [Photo by Yang Xin/For chinadaily.com.cn]

The Mini Three Links, which refers to small-scale trade, shipping and postal services between Fujian province, Kinmen Island and the Matsu Island group, recorded 500 vessels and approximately 20,000 passenger trips during the first quarter of this year, according to the Fuzhou border inspection station, marking a year-on-year increase of nearly 50 percent.

Fuzhou and Matsu are connected by two short-distance water routes (Mawei-Matsu and Lianjiang-Matsu) that have become a convenient channel for cross-Strait exchanges due to their short sailing time and affordable fares. Most passengers are Taiwan compatriots traveling for daily necessities, family visits, tourism, leisure or business purposes.