Encouraging private participation in Taiwan’s infrastructure projects is a top priority for the Public Construction Commission in 2013, PCC Minister Chern Jenn-chuan said Oct. 23.
“Public construction is a key driver of Taiwan’s economy going forward,” Chern said. “We will leave no stone unturned in promoting private investment as a way of stimulating the local economy.”
The minister, who made the remarks at a briefing Oct. 23 in Taipei City, said the PCC has identified suitable infrastructure projects around the country for private participation next year. Estimated investment is set to exceed NT$140 billion (US$4.75 billion), he added.
Projects include an NT$30 billion real estate development in Xinyi District; NT$30 billion urban renewal program in Nangang District; and NT$12.3 billion trade zone in outlying Kinmen County’s Shuitou Harbor.
PCC data shows that as of Sept. 26, Taiwan’s private sector pledged investment of NT$36.2 billion in 58 projects nationwide, with more than NT$70 billion to be finalized in the fourth quarter.
Chern said the Ministry of Transportation and Communications, Taipei City, Taoyuan County and Miaoli County governments are the leaders in promoting private participation in infrastructure works.
“These star performers have attracted private investment exceeding NT$87.5 billion, or nearly 90 percent of the total,” he said. “The Cabinet plans to recognize the efforts of the local governments with top-up project funding of NT$600 million.” (JSM)
Write to Meg Chang at sfchang@mofa.gov.tw