The first stage of the government’s Forward-looking Infrastructure Development Program is making good progress, with the next phase set to focus on 5G infrastructure and digital transformation, the National Development Council announced Sept. 8.
 
According to the NDC, the NT$510 billion (US$17.29 billion) budget earmarked for the second stage of the eight-year initiative was approved by the Legislature in early July.
 
As Taiwan proceeds into the post-pandemic new life, starting from 2021, the government will prioritize digital infrastructure development through projects encompassing artificial intelligence, 5G and semiconductor technology, the council said. Accordingly, the proportion of the FIDP budget assigned to these areas will increase from 5 to 16 percent, it added.
 
Specifically, NT$49 billion has been set aside to fast-track the country’s installation of a comprehensive 5G network, bolster infrastructure development in rural areas and promote creation of innovative applications.
 
Other priorities include setting up more industrial parks for homebound businesses affected by the ongoing China-U.S. trade friction, installing air conditioning in the classrooms of all public schools and transforming Taiwan into a bilingual country by 2030.
 
Launched in 2017, the FIDP aims to meet Taiwan’s development needs for the next 30 years. It covers eight categories: aquatic environments, child care facilities, digital infrastructure, food safety, green energy, human resources, railways and urban-rural renewal projects. (SFC-E)
 
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