TAIPEI (Taiwan News) – Hualien will pay travel agencies up to NT$4,000 (US$121.50) per person if they take overseas tour groups of more than 12 people to visit the region.

The county government program is intended to boost a revival of tourism in the area hit by the April 3, 2024 earthquake. The offer will remain valid until Nov. 30 for groups who stay in Hualien and follow a preset itinerary, per CNA.

To be eligible for subsidies, the travel agencies must form groups of at least 12 travelers. If they stay in Hualien for two nights, the agencies will receive NT$2,000 per group member, with NT$3,000 for three nights, and NT$4,000 for four nights.

The itinerary must also correspond to a number of conditions, including a stay at a listed green hotel, a meal at a green restaurant, or a visit to Liyu Lake or the Chinan Nature Education Center.

The county government said the program is designed to promote environmentally friendly low-carbon travel while helping to revive a sector severely affected by last year’s earthquake.