TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Executive Yuan (行政院) unveiled plans on Thursday (Oct. 17) to establish a Sports Ministry (運動部), aiming to launch the "Citizens Sports Administration" (全民運動署) and the "National Sports Industry Development Center" (國家運動產業發展中心) by August next year.
Secretary-General Kung Ming-hsin (龔明鑫) confirmed the department's budget and staffing plans, emphasizing the importance of legislative approval. Kung explained that the "Athletics Department" will comprise approximately 400 personnel, with funding already allocated in next year's central government budget.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Education Chang Liao Wan-chien (張廖萬堅) highlighted that a portion of the staff will come from the private sector, following the hiring practices of technical personnel.
Director-General of the Sports Administration Cheng Shih-chung (鄭世忠) explained the department's structure, which includes "1 department, 1 administration, and 3 centers," such as the "Citizens Sports Administration," "National Sports Industry Development Center," National Sports Training Center, and Taiwan's Institute of Sports Science.
Cheng added that the department's establishment requires amending five laws, enacting three new laws, and repealing one, with nine proposals slated for Legislative Yuan review.
Kung reassured that the Ministry of Education (MOE, 教育部) will continue managing school sports programs and facilities, whereas the "Athletics Department" will oversee professional sports venues and community facilities. The budget forecasts a push for NT$20 billion by 2026, with plans to secure a new office location and expand personnel resources.