Hsinchu City to reclaim ownership of first BOT market amid vendor concerns

Hsinchu City is poised to reclaim ownership of the Chien-Kuo Market, the first market in the city developed through a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model. The market's ownership and building are expected to return to the city government following years of legal disputes with the operator, who allegedly failed to pay significant rental and royalty fees.

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If the city government smoothly reclaims the ownership and building of Chien-Kuo Market, it should protect the public interest of citizens and the rights of existing vendors.

The BOT project, initiated under former Mayor Hsu Ming-tsai in 2013, began experiencing financial issues the following year when the operator reportedly stopped paying rent and royalties, accumulating over NT$36 million (approximately $1.1 million USD) in arrears. The situation escalated, leading the city government under former Mayor Lin Chih-chien to terminate the contract and pursue legal action to regain control of the property.

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Vendors have already heard that a multinational home goods retail company (IKEA) is evaluating the possibility of setting up a store, and vendors have also been asked about their willingness to relocate to Peimen Market.

City Councilor Liu Kang-yen has urged the city government to prioritize the rights of the existing vendors and the public interest once ownership is secured. He noted that vendors have heard rumors of IKEA potentially evaluating the site for a new store and that vendors have been asked about relocating to the Peimen Market. Liu stressed the need for clear communication and face-to-face discussions with vendors, many of whom have operated at Chien-Kuo Market for over a decade and have established customer bases.

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Regardless of the city government's latest policy stance and investment attraction direction, and regardless of the vendors' future whereabouts, the city government should publicly explain clearly and exchange opinions face-to-face with the vendors.

Liu also cautioned against policy reversals, citing the example of the Zhanqian Jingspin City parking lot, which faced prolonged uncertainty before being repurposed. He emphasized that the Chien-Kuo Market, which currently includes traditional stalls, a supermarket, a parking lot, and a restaurant, is operating stably and fulfilling the core value of a BOT project to enhance public services. The councilor called for a comprehensive plan that considers both consumer and vendor welfare, ensuring the market's future optimization and upgrade.

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The Chien-Kuo Market is currently operating stably, in line with the core value of the BOT project to improve the level of public services. If the city government confirms the reclamation of ownership, it should consider the overall situation.