TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taichung City Government in December began accepting bids for Taiwan’s first international soccer park, drawing strong interest from private firms.

According to the Taichung City Government, the city’s sports bureau said it held three briefing sessions in northern, central, and southern Taiwan to gather feedback and boost interest. More than 10 companies attended and discussed growth in the global soccer market.

Sports Bureau Director Yu Chih-shiang (游志祥) said the park is a key project for southern Taichung and a starting point for connecting with global sports. Yu said new zoning and high-speed rail projects nearby are expected to quickly bring in people and business.

The bureau said the park is planned to meet FIFA standards and host the Asian Football Confederation games. Designs include a main natural grass stadium with more than 6,000 seats, training fields, media rooms, and commercial space.

The site is in Nantun District near the high-speed rail eco-park and covers nearly five hectares. Officials said it will also serve as a leisure hub for shows and events, creating new business opportunities.