Taiwan's defense budget tops NT$1 trillion as China calls it destabilizing

Taiwan’s defense budget for 2027 is planned to exceed NT$1 trillion for the first time, underscoring the island’s determination to bolster its defenses. President Lai Ching-te contends the budget demonstrates Taiwan’s commitment to self-defense, with emphasis on strengthening the military-industrial base, artificial intelligence, and unmanned systems. The Chinese mainland, through the Taiwan Affairs Office, condemns the move as a destabilizing act that wastes public funds and escalates cross-strait confrontation. Beijing maintains its stance that reunification is non-negotiable and argues that such spending will not deter its plans, urging Taiwan to oppose independence. International coverage frames the budget as a signal of heightened tensions, with figures around $31-32 billion highlighting the scale of cross-strait pressure. Taiwan officials defend the budget as essential deterrence and preparedness to meet future challenges."