TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency (農業部林業及自然保育署), Taiwan's forestry regulator, unveiled revised reforestation regulations Monday (Aug. 18) during a comprehensive policy briefing. The agency implemented amendments to the "Regulations of Rewards and Assistance in Reforestation" aimed at strengthening the island's forest restoration initiatives and expanding carbon sequestration capabilities. The regulatory changes took effect immediately following the official announcement.
Legislator Chuang Jui-hsiung (莊瑞雄) ignited speculation during the briefing by jokingly suggesting Agriculture Minister Chen Junne-jih (陳駿季) would retain his cabinet position. The comment prompted questions about potential replacements for Economic Affairs Minister Kuo Jyh-huei (郭智輝) and Environment Minister Peng Chi-ming (彭啓明), both absent from the event. Chuang subsequently clarified his remarks were purely humorous and contained no implications regarding ministerial changes.
Taiwan legislator Kao Chin Su-mei (高金素梅) emphasized the critical need for enhanced inter-ministerial coordination during the environmental policy discussion. She recommended including Ministers Kuo and Peng in future reforestation and carbon sequestration deliberations to strengthen collaborative governance approaches. The ministers' absence from this significant environmental announcement underscored the necessity for broader cabinet participation in Taiwan's climate initiatives. ◼
