President Proposes Growth Allowance; Chiang Wan-an: Working with Central Gov for Child-Friendly Environment

Central News Agency, Taipei, May 22. President Lai Ching-te has proposed a monthly growth allowance of 5,000 TWD for every child aged 0 to 18, which could be implemented as early as next year. Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an stated today that the city has already launched numerous child-friendly policies and will work with the central government to create a more supportive environment for raising children. During his second-anniversary address, President Lai announced that to address the low birth rate, the government will provide a monthly allowance of 5,000 TWD for children aged 0-18, with an annual budget of approximately 200 billion TWD. Executive Yuan Secretary-General Chang Tun-han stated yesterday that a complete plan is expected to be submitted as early as next week, with hopes for swift discussion and passage in the Legislative Yuan. Mayor Chiang, speaking to the media before a report at the Taipei City Council today, noted that the city has implemented various policies, including happy housing, specialized hospitals for women and children, weekly milk distribution, and childcare work-reduction plans. Additionally, regarding reports that NVIDIA's Taiwan headquarters will break ground on the 27th and that CEO Jensen Huang is expected to attend, Mayor Chiang said he respects NVIDIA's schedule and looks forward to the completion of the new headquarters.