Taiwan’s Lai Says Defense Spending to Reach 5% of GDP by 2030

Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te said military spending is expected to reach 5% of GDP by 2030, underscoring his government’s commitment to self-defense to protect the island from China.

“This not only demonstrates our determination to safeguard national security and protect democracy, freedom, and human rights, but also reflects the willingness to stand shoulder to shoulder with the international community, jointly exerting deterrent power to maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region,” Lai said Friday during a visit to a Taiwanese navy vessel.