By Emma Farge

GENEVA, (Reuters) – Taiwan filed a trade complaint against China late Wednesday at a World Trade Organization meeting over Beijing’s attempts to stop sugar and wax apples imports from Taiwan. Two sources who are familiar with the matter stated that Taiwan was concerned about Beijing’s actions.

Taiwan has been threatening to bring the issue up at the international trade watchdog, as its relations with China are now at their lowest level in many decades.

One source said that this is the first time they have raised a formal complaint since joining the WTO together 20 years ago. Taipei had previously participated in complaints about China’s trade practices.

China’s customs administration halted clearance of the fruit due to pest concern in September. Beijing has been using increased political and military pressure on the democratically-ruled island to recognize its sovereignty.

Taiwan’s specific trade concern to the WTO’s Committee on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures was a first step. However, a large number of these complaints eventually become formal WTO disputes.

The second source said Taiwan stated that in case of pests, the usual procedure is to quarantine and fumigate rather than suspending products.

China’s delegate stated that China had found pests in fruit of its neighbor, and added that this poses a risk to China’s agriculture.

China’s objections prevent Taiwan from taking part in international organizations. Taiwan is officially known as “Separate customs Territory of Taiwan Penghu Kinmen and Matsu”.

The WTO spokesperson didn’t immediately respond to an email request asking him for comment.

China’s Ministry of Commerce didn’t immediately respond to my request.