Pingtung asbestos-removal subsidy runs out after surge in applications, officials say apply next year

Pingtung County’s subsidy budget for removing asbestos building materials has run out, leaving nearly 400 accepted cases waiting for cleanup.

The county environmental protection bureau said applications for the government-backed asbestos waste removal program exceeded the funds approved by Taiwan’s Ministry of Environment. Pingtung had requested about NT$87 million for 2026, but the ministry approved NT$15 million.

Demand has continued to rise in recent years. The county also faced insufficient funding during the 2025 program period. Officials are asking residents to wait until the 2027 program is formally announced before submitting new applications.

Pingtung County has sought NT$40 million in subsidies for next year and said it has received preliminary approval. Once the central government confirms the amount, officials will handle older cases in the order they were accepted. New applications will open only if money remains after those cases are cleared.

The bureau said asbestos fibers are less likely to escape when building materials remain intact and undamaged, meaning residents do not need to panic. People with urgent removal needs because of demolition or repairs may hire qualified contractors themselves. Information about asbestos and approved contractors is available through the Ministry of Environment’s Chemical Substances Administration.