Taiwan's vice president speaks out on drone bill debate

Taiwan's Legislature is poised to vote on a government-proposed NT$210 billion (US$6.59 billion) bill to fund procurement of locally developed defense unmanned vehicle systems. Fourteen competing versions, including opposition proposals, are up for consideration. In mid-August, lawmakers already approved a six‑year NT$44.2 billion drone program as part of the 2026 general budget. In a 50‑minute interview with CNA on Aug. 21, Vice President Hsiao Bi‑khim discussed differences among the draft versions, Taiwan's strengths and challenges in building its drone industry, its role as an asset in reliable global supply chains, and the need for international partnerships to overcome hurdles. This is an excerpt of the interview.