Taiwan Promulgates Amended Waste Disposal Act 
On July 15, 2026, the amended Waste Disposal Act was promulgated by presidential decree in Taiwan. This revision adds 10 new articles, repeals 3 articles, and amends 23 articles. Together with the Resource Circulation Promotion Act promulgated on June 17, the amended Waste Disposal Act serves as the legal foundation for Taiwan’s two major national strategies: achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and promoting resource recycling and zero waste.
The revisions across these two acts adopt a "carrot and stick" approach. The Waste Disposal Act focuses on stricter penalties for illegal activities (the stick), while the Resource Circulation Promotion Act centers on promoting circular design and supporting industries (the carrot). Key additions to the amended Waste Disposal Act include expanding the scope of enterprises responsible for waste management, strengthening reuse management, and imposing harsher penalties. Pursuant to Article 77 of the amended act, the provisions concerning reuse management and their related penalties (Articles 39 through 39-5 and the relevant penalties in Chapter 5) will take effect two years after the date of promulgation.
