New demographic strategy: NT$5,000 monthly growth allowance and expanded fertility subsidies

According to CNA, President Lai Ching-te announced today the latest strategic directions to address the challenges of low birth rates and demographic structure. Executive Yuan Secretary-General Zhang Dunhan reported that a growth allowance of NT$5,000 per month will be provided for children aged 0 to 18. The allowance is handled in two parts: for children aged 0 to under 6, the full amount is paid directly; for those aged 6 to 18, half is 'pre-deposited' and invested by the state. The government assumes the risk, guarantees a 2-year fixed deposit interest rate, and the funds are exempt from income tax and not counted as family assets, ensuring at least NT$360,000 is available for education or entrepreneurship by age 18. Additionally, subsidies for artificial reproduction have been expanded, with NT$130,000 to NT$150,000 for the first three attempts for those under 45, and NT$60,000 per attempt for the fourth to sixth attempts for those under 40.