TAIPEI (TVBS News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) announced on Thursday (April 24) that Taiwan will implement a carbon pricing system to align with international standards, countering the challenges posed by the U.S.'s new tariff policy. The government aims to avoid penalties on high-carbon industries and ensure the nation's industries remain competitive globally.
The Presidential Office (總統府) hosted the fourth meeting of the National Climate Change Committee (國家氣候變遷對策委員會), where President Lai highlighted the uncertainties in Taiwan's industries due to global climate change and reshaped international trade patterns. He emphasized that green transformation and sustainable development are essential for the nation's long-term prosperity.
President Lai stated that the government will collaborate with the private sector to turn crises into opportunities, advancing low-carbon and sustainable economic growth. Plans include a Taiwan-specific Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) to ensure fair competition and support enterprises with carbon inventory and ESG disclosure tools. He noted the financial sector's pivotal role in promoting net-zero transformation through diverse investment and financing tools.
Recognizing Taiwan's influence as a major Asian financial market, President Lai stressed the importance of leveraging this to contribute to the global net-zero transition. The Executive Yuan (行政院), the Ministry of Environment (環境部, MOENV), and other ministries have initiated carbon reduction action plans, engaging industry, academia, and civic groups in dialogue.
MOENV has partnered with universities to launch the green talent initiative, setting up regional centers across Taiwan to expand green talent training. President Lai also announced online climate and net-zero courses for high school students and teachers, rooting for Taiwan's sustainable future in education.
