Taipei City Government

In the age of global pandemic, Taipei’s success in containing COVID-19 through strict preventive measures has been recognized around the world. Agencies affiliated with the Melbourne City Government connected with the Department of Economic Development (DOED) for an online conference to discuss topics ranging from pandemic prevention to post-COVID-19 era economic recovery strategies on February 1.
 
During the presentation, DOED briefed the representatives of Melbourne on Taipei’s economic development strategy related with innovation and commercial transition in the post pandemic era. Through a 3-stage process, the city government attempts to help companies and industries withstand the impact brought about by the pandemic.
 
Nine measures outlined by the strategy include postponing tax collection, reducing rent, cutting price, favorable interest, subsidies, lowering tax, postponing rent payment, suspending rent payment, and providing workers with financial relief.
 
As for retail and other industries which suffered greatly from the loss of customers, the city government assisted the businesses through approaches such as digital transition, marketing promotion, subsidies, and more.
 
According to Economic Development Commissioner Lin Chung-chieh, in the face of the COVID-19 crisis, companies should think out of the box and tap upon the value of digital economy. Through the exchange with Melbourne, Taipei is happy to share its experience and strategies. Hopefully the two cities can learn from each other, enabling both sides to strengthen their respective post-pandemic economic recovery plans.