Taichung Hot Pot Festival NT$14 Million Bid Awarded to Sister's Company; Mayor Says Process Was Fair and Open

A NT$14 million promotional bid for the 2026 Taichung Hot Pot Festival has been awarded to CTV, a decision drawing scrutiny due to the close familial ties between the broadcaster's chairperson and the city's mayor. The controversy centers on whether Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen should have recused herself from the decision-making process.

Lawyer Lin Chih-chiang raised concerns on social media, pointing out that CTV Chairperson and General Manager Lu Shiou-fang is Mayor Lu Shiow-yen's sister. He questioned the propriety of awarding the bid to CTV, especially since it was granted through a "most favorable bid" process, suggesting a potential conflict of interest.

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No, fair and open.

Responding to the allegations while visiting Yunlin County, Mayor Lu Shiow-yen asserted that all bidding processes are conducted fairly and openly. She stated that the public is welcome to investigate the matter legally, emphasizing transparency in government procurement. "No, fair and open," she told reporters when asked about potential conflicts of interest.

Lu Shiow-yen further elaborated that over the past eight years, all bidding opportunities have been open to everyone. She maintained that as long as proposals are fair, open, and present the best plan for Taichung, they will be considered equally. The mayor insisted that the awarding of the bid to CTV was a result of a transparent and equitable process.

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All bidding processes are conducted fairly and openly, and that anyone could legally investigate the process.