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Taiwan Proposes 18% Boost to 2027 Defense Budget

8/20/2026

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Taiwan Boosts Defence

On Thursday, Taiwan's government proposed an 18% increase in its 2027 defence budget, exceeding NT$1 trillion for the time.
President William Lai Ching-te pledged defence spending to reach 5% of GDP by 2030, and analysts warned GDP growth could lower share, making target harder.
Cabinet approved the budget, projecting defence spending at NT$1.1225 trillion.
The budget adds a 4% pay rise for military personnel, civil servants and teachers.

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Taiwan Defense Increase

Taiwan’s government proposed an 18 % increase to its 2027 defence budget, pushing total spending above NT$1 trillion.
The plan earmarks over NT$100 billion for military pensions, raising concerns that the added debt could strain public services and social welfare.
Defence allocation includes NT$691.9 billion for the Ministry of National Defense and NT$218.2 billion in special budgets.
The 2027 budget projects NT$179 billion borrowing, keeping total debt at NT$6.8831 trillion, below the 40.6 % ceiling.

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Taiwan Boosts Defence

On Thursday, Taiwan's government proposed an 18% increase in its 2027 defence budget, exceeding NT$1 trillion for the time.
President William Lai Ching-te pledged defence spending to reach 5% of GDP by 2030, and analysts warned GDP growth could lower share, making target harder.
Cabinet approved the budget, projecting defence spending at NT$1.1225 trillion.
The budget adds a 4% pay rise for military personnel, civil servants and teachers.

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