Prosecutors Raid Huang Chang General Contractor Over Alleged Budget Inflation in CPC Third LNG Terminal Project

Taipei District Prosecutors Office, along with the Agency Against Corruption and the Investigation Bureau, conducted a major search operation on June 23, raiding 27 locations, including the offices of Huang Chang General Contractor. Investigators summoned 14 individuals, including the company's chairman, surnamed Chiang, for questioning.

Reports indicate that the investigation stems from whistleblower evidence suggesting that the budget for the outer breakwater construction of the Third LNG Terminal at Guanyin was artificially inflated. Allegations claim the initial budget of NT$9.4 billion was increased four times, eventually reaching NT$253 billion. Audio evidence reportedly suggests that CPC personnel may have been involved in the price escalation before the project was awarded to a specific firm through a "most advantageous tender" process.

Following anonymous tips received last year, prosecutors initiated a multi-phase investigation. Previous actions included searches at CPC Corporation, CECI Engineering Consultants, and the homes of relevant personnel, including former CECI chairman Shih Yi-fang. Today's operation marks the fourth phase of the investigation, aimed at securing further evidence and clarifying discrepancies in the bidding process. The investigation remains ongoing.