TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen (盧秀燕) said Tuesday the city will subsidize households up to NT$5,000 (US$160) to purchase home food waste machines in 2026, so they can handle their kitchen waste.

Taichung City Government said the city has allocated NT$50 million for the subsidy and plans to support about 10,000 households. Applications will open at 10 a.m. on Jan. 2 and run through Dec. 31 in 2026 or until funds run out.

The mayor said the subsidy is meant to help residents prepare for a nationwide ban on feeding food waste to pigs, which will take effect in the new year. Lu pointed out that the city took action after hearing public concerns about higher disposal costs and fewer reuse options.

CNA reported Tuesday that each household can apply for one machine, with the subsidy capped at NT$5,000 or the actual purchase price, whichever is lower. Only Taichung residents registered before June 30, 2025, are eligible, and businesses, schools, and government offices cannot apply.

The city officials noted the subsidy only covers biodegradable, drying, and mixed-processing food waste machines. Shredding machines and refrigeration or freezing models are excluded from the subsidy.