Electric agri-machinery given additional funding to help achieve agricultural net zero
The AFA explains that February 20 marks the beginning of this year’s agricultural machinery subsidies. Among the models, the application for labor-saving and newly-developed models is delegated to local farmers’ associations, while mechanized agricultural services, spraying EAVs, imported labor-saving, and carbon sink models are handed over to AFA Regional Branches (incl. its local offices). The regular fuel-burning models can be subsidized for up to one-third the cost, while electric models are increased to one-half to encourage wider adoption. The carbon sink models such as eco-friendly riding mowers for wet field and water-saving laser levelers are also included in this year’s program.
Agricultural subsidies available in stages, eligible farmers are advised to file for subsidies accordingly
The AFA further elaborates that to ensure every farmer a chance for subsidies, the program will be available in three stages. The timeline for each are February 20 to April 10, May 20 to July 10, and August 20 to October 10 (the closest business day applies when the ending date is a public holiday). The applications for each stage will be collected and ranked to determine the successful applicants, who can then make the purchase upon notice. All applicants must complete the purchase and claim their subsidies before November 30 this year (2023) to qualify for reimbursement.
The agri-machinery subsidy has been expanded since 2019, helping farmers procure labor-saving agricultural machinery to alleviate domestic labor shortage. President Ing-Wen Tsai announced the inclusion of mechanized agricultural services models in October of the same year, and ordered the Executive Yuan to continue this initiative. From 2017 to 2022, the program assisted farmers in purchasing 183 thousand machinery units, saving a total of 800 thousand person days of labor. When accounted for the associated industries, it generated over NTD 12 billion of economic output, and the lowered economic burden of entry for mechanization has been well received by the farming community.
Information on agricultural subsidies, application forms, and contact points are announced on the AFA’s website (https://www.afa.gov.tw). Please click Agricultural and Food/Agricultural Machinery Subsidies to access and encourage farmers in your jurisdiction or neighborhood to apply. Have any question? Feel free to inquire the farmers’ association and AFA regional branches near you.
