TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan plans to invest up to NT$63.91 billion (US$2 billion) to strengthen the Coast Guard and maritime security, Nikkei Asia reported Thursday.
Ocean Affairs Council Minister Kuan Bi-ling (管碧玲) said the conflict in the Middle East has sharpened global attention over shipping lane security. She said Taiwan must be prepared for maritime disruptions while pursuing stability and peace.
Kuan said governments are focused on whether Taiwan could withstand scenarios such as a blockade or maritime quarantine. The Taiwan Strait, a vital trade route, carries a significant share of global shipping and energy supplies.
China has intensified military drills and maritime activity around Taiwan in recent years, while vessels linked to Beijing have been accused of damaging undersea communication cables.
Kuan described China’s expanding presence as a form of gray zone pressure, warning that a “war without gunpowder” is already underway. In 2025 alone, Taiwan monitored and expelled 1,984 Chinese vessels from its waters, according to Kuan
She said Chinese coast guard ships are increasingly operating alongside civilian and dual-use vessels to harass Taiwan. More than 200 ships have made incursions near outlying islands such as Kinmen and Matsu, testing enforcement limits.
In response, Taiwan is boosting inter-agency coordination and accelerating preparations to shift from peacetime to wartime operations if needed. Coast Guard vessels, including those capable of carrying missiles, could be integrated into defense efforts.
The government has earmarked up to NT$60 billion for Coast Guard upgrades, including fleet modernization, drone patrols, and AI-powered maritime surveillance. The goal is to improve early warning capabilities and strengthen overall resilience.
Kuan said Taiwan is also expanding cooperation with international partners, including joint exercises and simulations involving the shipping industry. Countries such as Japan and the Philippines are facing similar pressure and are enhancing regional coordination.
“We are strengthening our capabilities,” Kuan said, adding that the government is establishing a response mechanism and even inviting the shipping industry to take part in simulations.
