In the midst of Taiwan’s worst COVID outbreak yet, the tourism industry has been hit hard. The government has a new plan to help the sector, but some fear help might be coming too late.
As Taiwan faces its worst COVID wave yet, the government is offering NT$5.5 billion (US$190 million) in subsidies to save the tourism industry.
Businessman Lee Chi-Yüeh says previous efforts during the pandemic to save the industry haven’t been enough.
Others fear this time will be the same.
Under the new scheme, tour groups will receive up to NT$20,000, around US$700, with other incentives for hiring Indigenous guides.
Independent travelers can get up to NT$1,300, almost US$45, for each night of lodging.
But due to the current COVID wave, the subsidies will only be available starting in September. Many fear that might be too late.
Businessman Chen Chien-Chin says lately he has had almost no guests.
Lee says the government should focus on directly subsidizing workers’ salaries and businesses’ costs. Only then will the industry be ready to welcome new guests.
Many in the industry are asking the government to first save businesses before incentivizing growth. With COVID cases still at their peak, they hope relief can come quickly.