Taiwan plans to increase his defense budget in almost a quarter next year, exceeding 3% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), to strengthen his abilities against China and respond to the calls of the United States to strengthen his army.
This decision occurs when China, which considers Taiwan, however, democratically directed, as part of its territory, has intensified its military and political pressures in the last five years to affirm its statements. But Taiwan must also respond to Washington calls to increase their own military spending, which reflects a pressure similar to that exerted by the United States in Europe.
“Preserve stability”
The Cabinet of Prime Minister Cho Jung-Tai allocated 949.5 billion new dollars of Taiwan (26.71 billion euros), or 3.32 % of GDP, for defense expenses by 2026, according to Cho Jung-Tai. With 3.32% of GDP, this level exceeds the threshold of 3% for the first time since 2009, according to government data. This represents an increase of 22.9% compared to 2025, said Hsieh Chi-Hsien, director of the Office of Controllers of the Ministry of Defense.
“This is a new concrete manifestation, both for the world and for our people, of our determination and our ability to defend national sovereignty and security, to preserve stability and security in the indopacific region and assume our shared responsibilities towards the world,” said Cho Jung-Tai this Thursday at a press conference.
The Taiwanese head of government also said that the total defense budget was calculated “using the NATO model and standards”, including expenses dedicated to the coastal guard and veterans.
Strong Chinese pressure
But the expenses proposed by the Taiwanese government must first be approved by Parliament before it can enter into force. The opposition, composed of the most favorable parties for China, has managed to reduce the government budget of 2025 and freeze certain defense expenses.
Taiwan has increased its military investments in recent years, in particular through the development of local submarines, since China intensifies its pressures on the Asian island. The Chinese Air Force performs almost daily missions in Taiwan’s sky and periodically organizes the exercises, the last of which took place in April.
Source: BFM TV
