Everyone to get NT$3,600 bonus

Consumers welcomed the premier’s announcement, describing it as a “red envelope” gift for the New Year holidays from the government. Many started toying with a shopping list since a family of three will get an equivalent of more than NT$10,000 in cash.

Business and industry executives said the shopping voucher plan will bring a timely relief for many struggling companies.

Some enterprises have started working out marketing strategies and promotion campaigns to lure more holders of the coupons to buy their products.

An economist commented the plan is on a right track because it does not exclude people with higher incomes from getting the coupons.

The plan will certainly help to boost some spending over the next couple of quarters, although it will need extra measures to boost the economic growth numbers, he said.

Chairman Hsieh Tien-jen of the Consumers Foundation also backed the plan. But he suggested the government overcome obstacles to implement the measure as early as possible.

The government should also consider allowing shopping at street vendors or eatery operators because they are in greater need of a helping hand than the large chain stores and food giants.

Opposition

The Democratic Progressive Party maintained its opposition to the plan, saying the government should give people tax rebates or cash as a way of spurring spending instead of wasting money printing the coupons.

But if the Legislative Yuan eventually approves the voucher program, the senior officials should donate their vouchers to charities, said DPP lawmakers.

Some environmentalist organizations also voiced criticism at the purchase coupon plan. They said the government should help promote resources conservation rather than encouraging consumption.

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