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Taiwan’s parliament on Tuesday approved a pay raise for military personnel, aiming to tackle a persistent manpower shortage and boost retention amid growing military pressure from China.
Beijing continues to claim Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to bring the self-governed island under its control.
Backed by the main opposition Kuomintang (KMT) and the Taiwan People’s Party, lawmakers passed amendments to the armed forces pay act, granting volunteer service members an additional monthly allowance of NT$30,000 (approximately US$1,000).
Previously, the law did not set a specific amount for such allowances.
This new benefit comes on top of pay increases announced by President Lai Ching-te in March.
“The armed forces are facing new types of operational needs… allowances should be increased to reflect the sharp rise in unit duties and training frequency,” the KMT said in the document outlining the proposed changes.
“By significantly raising allowances and adding an adjustment mechanism, the aim is to improve recruitment incentives and retain outstanding talent.”
Lawmakers also approved additional changes on Tuesday, including a provision ensuring that conscripts receive no less than the minimum wage, as well as extra pay for those serving in combat units and for working overtime.
However, Premier Cho Jung-tai, a member of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party, criticised the move, saying the government would challenge the amendments. He argued that the cabinet had not been consulted, as required under the budget act.
