TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) announced plans on Thursday (Nov. 28) to abolish the amusement tax to boost the city's arts, entertainment, and sports industries. Kuomintang (KMT, 國民黨) Councilor Wu Shih-cheng (吳世正) highlighted the tax's outdated nature during a city council session, urging the government to adopt new policies.
Wu noted that the Executive Yuan (行政院) approved an amendment to the amusement tax law in September, encouraging Taipei to prepare for its implementation once the Legislative Yuan (立法院) passes it. He stated that Taipei collects about NT$200 million to NT$300 million annually from the amusement tax, suggesting its removal could enhance public participation in cultural events.
Mayor Chiang strongly supported the tax exemption, citing Taipei's potential to develop a concert economy. He pointed to the city's robust consumer base, numerous large venues, and convenient transportation, positioning it as an international metropolis. Chiang also emphasized his confidence in the Taipei Dome's upcoming events, aiming to attract international stars and top-tier performers.
Taipei's Department of Finance (北市財政局) reported that as of the end of October, amusement tax revenue reached NT$211 million, with concerts being the primary source. The Executive Yuan's amendment proposes reducing most tax rates by at least half, except for golf courses, which will maintain a 20% rate. It also allows local governments to exempt specific items, such as professional baseball and concerts, from the amusement tax.
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