Taiwan proposes boosting 2027 defence spending by 18%
The government has made military modernisation a key policy priority amid a rising threat from China.
Taiwan's government has officially proposed an 18% increase in defence spending for 2027, bringing the total to a record T$1.1225 trillion (US$31.41 billion), which surpasses 3% of the country's gross domestic product for the first time. This comes amid growing military and political pressure from China, which views Taiwan as its own territory.
Taiwan is also facing calls from Washington to spend more on its own defence, reflecting US pressure on European nations. President Lai Ching-te has welcomed this demand and the government has pledged to continue military modernisation efforts, including the development of Taiwan-made submarines. The budget includes funds for veterans and the Coast Guard, which assists the navy in protecting Taiwan's maritime areas.
Despite this, Taiwan's opposition-dominated parliament may challenge the government's spending plans, though they have acknowledged the importance of defence expenditure.
Written by urgent.news from Free Malaysia Today's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 1 other outlet
- Taiwan proposes boosting 2027 defence spending by 18% freemalaysiatoday.com
