Taichung International Exhibition Center Phase II Construction Tender Completed with NT$6 Billion Central Government Investment

(Central News Agency reporter Hao Hsueh-ching, Taichung, April 14) The first phase of the Taichung International Exhibition Center began operations in March this year. Taichung Mayor Lu Hsiu-yen announced today that the bidding for the second phase of the exhibition center has been completed, with the central government investing NT$6 billion. Construction is expected to begin in the first half of next year, adding 2,100 new exhibition booths.

Lu Hsiu-yen explained during a city council meeting that the first phase of the Taichung International Exhibition Center, after more than seven years of effort by the city government, officially opened on March 25 this year. The total cost was approximately NT$8.9 billion, funded entirely by the Taichung City Government through self-owned land and self-raised funds, without any central government subsidies. Since opening, the venue has attracted over 1.4 million visitors to various exhibitions, with cumulative on-site transaction values reaching NT$65 billion, demonstrating outstanding operational performance.

Lu stated that the exhibition schedule for the first phase is fully booked this year, and the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), responsible for operations, has reported strong market demand. Therefore, even before the completion of the first phase, the city government began promoting the construction of the second phase, planning to build it on the west side of the existing exhibition center.

Regarding the second phase project, Lu said the land will continue to be provided by the city government, with the central government investing approximately NT$6 billion. The Taichung City Government will be responsible for construction, and after completion, revenue will be shared based on operational performance. This project is a direct central government investment, not a subsidy—city provides land, central provides funding, and both will share future operational results.

Lu pointed out that the second phase project has completed its tender process and will be executed through a turnkey contract, integrating design and construction to accelerate overall progress. Contractors will proceed with planning and design, with formal construction expected to begin in the first half of next year. Upon completion, approximately 2,100 new exhibition booths will be added.

She emphasized that the first phase currently includes two buildings: an exhibition hall and a conference center. The second phase will also construct two additional buildings. Once completed, the Taichung International Exhibition Center will not only be one of Asia's newest exhibition venues but also Taiwan's largest international professional exhibition center, continuing to boost Taichung's economy. (Editor: Li Hsi-chang) 1150714