TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) proposed a universal cash handout of NT$10,000 (US$314) per person next year, noting economic growth is forecast to reach a 39-year high, creating an opportunity to share the benefits.
Lai made the remarks Monday while attending a central government budget briefing. He said long-standing strengths in semiconductors, information and communications technology, and manufacturing supply chains have enabled the government to share what he described as an “AI dividend,” per a press release.
“All colleagues have worked diligently and steadfastly, maintaining steady progress and delivering outstanding results even in the face of a turbulent international political and economic situation and domestic political turmoil,” said Lai.
He noted that an upward revision of Taiwan's economic growth forecast led the central government to raise revenue projections for next year to NT$3.9266 trillion, enabling the government to earmark NT$235.7 billion to fund a NT$10,000 universal cash handout while maintaining a balanced budget and virtually zero net debt.
Lai said individuals and families can decide how to use the money, including paying for children's education, caring for elderly family members, easing household financial burdens, increasing consumption, and supporting local businesses and industries.
“We must take care of the people's immediate needs and be responsible for future generations; share the fruits of economic growth while upholding the discipline of national finances,” he said.
Lai then instructed the Cabinet to complete the general budget proposal according to schedule and expressed hope that the legislature will review the 2027 general budget on schedule. He said Taiwan should continue taking advantage of opportunities created by AI while strengthening and investing in the country and supporting working families, per the press release.
“Let technology drive the economy, let the economy strengthen the nation, and let national progress benefit the daily lives of the people,” Lai said.
