TAIPEI (TVBS News) — In a bid to bolster its declining birth rate, Taipei City Government announced on Tuesday the launch of an NT＄8,000 taxi subsidy program for pregnant women, set to begin on July 1.
The program aims to provide financial support to pregnant women residing in Taipei City with a Maternal Health Booklet, encouraging childbirth and alleviating the challenges expectant mothers face.
Taipei City Mayor Chiang Wan-an, accompanied by his five-month-old son, attended a press conference to promote the initiative, highlighting its potential to transform the city into a more friendly, livable, and considerate environment for families.
To avail themselves of the subsidy, eligible pregnant women can apply online or visit various locations, including Taipei's district health service centers, district offices, social welfare centers, and select medical institutions cooperating with the program.
The NT＄8,000 subsidy can be used from the early stages of pregnancy until six months after giving birth, with each taxi ride eligible for a maximum discount of NT＄250.
With 12 contracted fleets and 16,000 taxis, the program ensures convenient access to transportation services. Pregnant women can easily hail a cab by utilizing the government's TaipeiPass mobile app, providing safe and efficient transportation options.
The program's implementation stems from concerns over Taipei City's declining birth rate. According to data from the Department of Household Registration, the city witnessed a rapid decrease in the crude birth rate over the past five years, dropping from 8.5 births per 1,000 people in 2018 to only 5.7 births per 1,000 people in 2022.
The Taipei City Government aims to reverse this trend by providing tangible support to expectant mothers and fostering an environment that promotes childbirth and family-friendly policies. The new taxi subsidy program is a step towards creating a more vibrant and inclusive city for residents.