There's no definitive proof that China is "desperate" to take Taiwan by 2030, although that date is frequently cited in analyses of their intentions. The urgency expressed by some Chinese officials and the rhetoric surrounding Taiwan is complex and stems from a confluence of factors, rather than a simple, singular desperation:

Xi Jinping's Legacy: President Xi Jinping has made "reunification" with Taiwan a key part of his political legacy. Successfully achieving this goal before the end of his tenure (or within a timeframe he can reasonably influence) would be a significant accomplishment, bolstering his image as a strong leader who restored national unity. This personal ambition is a powerful driver.

Growing Military Capabilities: China's military modernization has significantly increased its capabilities in recent years. This has emboldened some within the Chinese leadership to believe a successful invasion is increasingly feasible. The 2030 timeframe might reflect an assessment of when sufficient military dominance will be achieved.

Perceived Vulnerability: The longer reunification is delayed, the more opportunities there are for Taiwan to strengthen its own defenses, deepen its ties with the US and other allies, and solidify its de facto independence. From China's perspective, the window of opportunity for a less costly or less risky operation might be closing.

Economic Considerations: Taiwan's semiconductor industry is crucial to global technology. Control over TSMC, the world's leading manufacturer of advanced chips, would give China a major economic and technological advantage, potentially aiding their ambitions for technological leadership. This economic incentive adds pressure to pursue unification.

International Relations: The evolving geopolitical landscape, including increased US involvement in the Indo-Pacific and growing anxieties about the potential for conflict, may be shaping China's calculations. They might perceive a narrower window of opportunity before external opposition becomes overwhelming.

Internal Political Dynamics: The Chinese government might use the Taiwan issue to deflect attention from domestic problems or rally public support around a nationalist cause. The "threat" from Taiwan can serve as a useful tool for internal political control.

It's crucial to understand that these factors are intertwined and interact in complex ways. The "2030 deadline" should be viewed as a speculative timeline, not a concrete plan. While some within the Chinese government and military may favor an aggressive approach, others may advocate for a more patient, diplomatic strategy. The actual timing and method of any potential action on Taiwan remains uncertain and depends on a multitude of evolving factors.