Taiwan increases defense spending to deter war, says President

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te stated that the island's rising defense investments are intended to deter war rather than provoke conflict amid mounting Chinese pressure.

The government earmarked a record NT$1.1 trillion ($34.5 billion) for defense spending for 2027, accounting for over 3% of the gross domestic product.

The announcement coincided with Taiwan's National Day celebrations marking the 115th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of China.