President Lai announces NT$10,000 cash handout for next year; legislator to donate share to charity

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te has announced plans to distribute NT$10,000 in cash to every citizen next year, a move supported by ruling Democratic Progressive Party legislator Lai Ruei-long. Lai Ruei-long praised the government's decision, emphasizing that it allows for the sharing of economic growth achievements with the public without incurring new debt. He pledged to donate his personal share to charitable causes, following a similar action during a previous cash distribution in 2025, hoping to inspire others. The legislator highlighted Taiwan's strong economic performance, with first and second quarter growth rates reaching 15.43% and 12.93% respectively, contributing to a 14.15% growth in the first half of the year – the best performance in half a century. The full-year economic growth forecast has been revised upwards to 11.05%, potentially marking a 39-year high, driven by Taiwan's competitiveness in AI, semiconductors, and high-performance computing. Lai Ruei-long stated that this economic success is the result of collective effort from Taiwanese businesses, workers, and citizens. The NT$10,000 handout is intended to "reduce burdens, care for the vulnerable, and stabilize livelihoods," further boosting consumption and invigorating domestic demand. He asserted that the DPP government ensures the benefits of industrial growth are shared by all, supporting various sectors and frontline workers, thus proving that "the right people, the right path, and the right actions" lead to success. Lai Ruei-long also committed to working closely with the central government to secure development and social welfare resources for Kaohsiung, aiming to translate economic gains into tangible improvements in citizens' lives.

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reduce burdens, care for the vulnerable, and stabilize livelihoods