Taiwan President Lai Ching-te said on Monday that the 2027 central government general budget, under the premise of a balanced budget and effectively zero new debt, will include an additional NT$235.7 billion (about RM30.164 billion) of expenditure for a universal cash payout of NT$10,000 (about RM1,300) per person. Meanwhile, next year's total national defense budget will, for the first time, exceed one trillion, reaching NT$1.1225 trillion (about RM143.651 billion).
The Presidential Office issued a press release stating that Lai Ching-te, during his first briefing on the "2027 Central Government General Budget" two weeks ago, mentioned that the general budget for the next year must be built on fiscal soundness, while balancing national security, economic development, and people's welfare, and that the fruits of economic growth should be shared by all citizens.
He said that the latest economic figures show that Taiwan's economic performance continues to be revised upward, with growth now even stronger than previous projections. Taiwan's economy has posted double-digit growth for three consecutive quarters. For the full year, according to the latest forecast from the Directorate-General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics, economic growth has been revised up from the original 9.64% to 11.05%, which is expected to set a new 39-year record high.
He said these impressive figures are the result of the joint efforts of all Taiwanese people, and expressed thanks to all hard-working businesses, every diligent worker, as well as Premier Cho Jung-tai and his administrative team for working diligently and steadfastly at their posts. Despite facing turbulent international political and economic circumstances and domestic political disputes, the team has continued to move forward in a steady manner, delivering a brilliant report card.
Lai Ching-te pointed out that in addition to the universal cash payout, the government will also continue to promote salary increases, tax cuts, increased welfare, lessening the people's burdens, and accelerating infrastructure construction.
He hopes that the central and local governments will cooperate hand in hand, giving local governments more capacity for development, construction, and improving people’s livelihoods, to keep building a good life in Taiwan.