TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Kaohsiung City Government's Finance Bureau announced on Wednesday (Dec. 20) that it has become the first in the nation to be granted the qualification to issue green bonds, totaling NT＄2 billion. This move aims to save on interest payments and promote sustainable environmental practices without increasing the city's debt.
Kaohsiung recently passed a net-zero autonomy ordinance and established the Taiwan Carbon Solution Exchange, further boosting its green initiatives. In partnership with the Kaohsiung Mass Rapid Transit Bureau, the Finance Bureau has received permission to issue government green bonds, marking a first in Taiwan.
These green bonds will fund projects related to renewable energy development, enhanced energy efficiency, and greenhouse gas emission reduction.
Chen Yung-sheng, director-general of the Finance Bureau, emphasized that the NT＄2 billion bonds with low, fixed interest rates will replace higher-interest bank loans, ensuring resources are directed toward low-carbon initiatives.
Under the leadership of Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai, the city has reduced its debt by NT＄10.6 billion by the end of 2022, exceeding the NT＄10 billion reduction target. Kaohsiung is committed to enhancing its financial and environmental sustainability and pursuing comprehensive net-zero policies in line with a 2050 net-zero goal.