TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Cheng Shu-fen (程淑芬), chief investment officer of Cathay Financial Holdings (國泰金) and a member of the Ministry of Environment's (MOENV, 環境部) carbon fee review committee, stated on Wednesday (Sept. 11) that imposing a carbon fee will have a limited impact on Taiwan's inflation.
Cheng used petrochemicals, steel, and cement industries as examples, noting that their profits are tied to international raw material price fluctuations rather than the carbon fee. She explained that the MOENV is more concerned about the sub-industries affected by carbon leakage and import substitution, which could impact competitiveness.
Cheng advocated a phased approach to imposing the carbon fee tailored to different industries. Despite its challenges, she emphasized that implementing a carbon fee is an international obligation and highlighted the importance of supporting businesses through this transition.
The MOENV held its fifth meeting on reviewing carbon fee rates on Monday. The committee recommended a general fee rate range of NT$300 to NT$500 per ton, with plans to increase it to NT$1,200 to NT$1,800, respectively, by 2030. The final fee rate, along with preferential rates, will be decided at the next meeting.
