TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's state-owned energy company, CPC Corp. (中油), announced Monday (June 30) that it would freeze natural gas prices for July amid market turbulence. The decision comes as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and shifting U.S. trade policies have created unprecedented volatility in global energy markets, leaving future price trajectories uncertain for consumers across the island nation.
The energy giant revealed it has absorbed more than NT$430 billion (approximately US$14.8 billion) in natural gas costs between 2021 and 2024 as part of its price stabilization efforts. By late May 2025, this year's absorption had already reached NT$9.2 billion (about US$316.3 million). CPC officials emphasized the corporation would continue shouldering costs below market rates to shield consumers from price volatility, ensuring stable rates for residential, commercial and industrial users throughout July.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA, 經濟部) issued a supporting statement emphasizing that the price freeze aligns with broader government initiatives to safeguard public welfare. "CPC will maintain its commitment to domestic price stability while continuously monitoring international energy markets," the ministry noted. The corporation plans to implement rolling reviews of global conditions to determine when adjustments might become necessary, balancing market realities with consumer protection priorities. ◼