Taiwan President Lai Ching-te has proposed giving every person NT$10,000 (US$314) next year, saying stronger-than-expected economic growth has created an opportunity to share the benefits with the public.
Lai made the proposal Monday during a central government budget briefing, as Taiwan’s economy is forecast to record its strongest growth in 39 years.
He said Taiwan’s strengths in semiconductors, information and communications technology and manufacturing supply chains have allowed the country to benefit from growing demand linked to artificial intelligence.
The government plans to set aside NT$235.7 billion for the proposed universal cash payment. Lai said the funds would be available following an upward revision to the government’s economic outlook, which also lifted projected central government revenue for next year to NT$3.9266 trillion.
Lai said the handout could help households cover expenses such as children’s education and elderly care, while easing financial pressures and encouraging consumer spending and support for local businesses.
He also stressed that the measure should not come at the expense of fiscal discipline, saying the government could maintain a balanced budget with virtually no net increase in debt.
“We must take care of the people’s immediate needs and be responsible for future generations,” Lai said, adding that Taiwan should share the benefits of economic growth while maintaining sound public finances.
Lai instructed the Cabinet to complete the proposed 2027 central government budget on schedule and expressed hope that lawmakers would review it according to the timetable.
He also called for continued investment in Taiwan’s economy and workforce to capitalize on opportunities created by the global AI boom.
The proposed cash payment comes as Taiwan’s economy benefits from strong global demand for advanced semiconductors and AI-related technology, sectors that have become key drivers of the island’s economic growth.
