MOENV holds fifth meeting on carbon fee rates

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Environment (MOENV, 環境部) convened its fifth meeting on carbon fees on Monday (Sept. 9) to discuss adjustments to carbon fees and preferential rates. 
The meeting followed four prior sessions that evaluated global carbon pricing systems and the domestic impact of carbon fees.

MOENV emphasized that scientific assessments indicate carbon fee collection will not cause inflation. The ministry cited a U.S. study showing that a 35% reduction in emissions through carbon taxes positively affected employment and the overall economy, creating new job and investment opportunities through low-carbon transitions.

Industry representatives expressed concerns that fees exceeding NT$500 per ton would significantly impact sectors like cement and steel, reducing their international competitiveness.

However, environmental groups argued that carbon fees should align with developed countries and stay within NT$300. They warned that lower fees could force companies to pay carbon tariffs abroad, undermining domestic competitiveness and the effective use of carbon fees.