The April 3 earthquake in Hualien has dampened tourism to neighboring Yilan County. Hotels have reported a sharp drop in occupancy rates. Ahead of tax season in May, the Yilan County government announced relief on property taxes, to ease the pressure on hotel operators.

A floor-to-ceiling window offers stunning views of Yilan’s verdant landscape. For many travelers, rooms like this are the top choice for an escape.

But the April 3 earthquake in Hualien has dealt a blow to local tourism. Once fully booked on weekends, hotels now struggle with vacancies. Earthquake aftershocks big and small have made many people reconsider trips to Yilan, Hualien, or Taitung.

Lin Chun-heng
Hotel representative
During the pandemic, tourism in Yilan and Hualien fared fine. But since the earthquake, people have hesitated to come to Yilan because they associate this area with Hualien.

With tax season coming up in May, the Yilan County government is offering an installment plan on property taxes. Amounts less than NT$200,000 can be paid in six monthly installments. Amounts between NT$200,000 and NT$1 million can be paid in 12 monthly payments. Amounts from NT$1 million to NT$5 million can be spread over 24 monthly installments. Anything above NT$5 million can be paid in 36 monthly installments over three years.

Lu Tien-lung
Yilan County Finance and Taxation Bureau
Taxpayers, including accommodation providers, who face difficulties in paying their taxes can submit the relevant documents at tax collection agencies before the deadline to request payment in installments.

Wang Wen-hsin
Yilan tourism association
It offers some breathing room. It definitely will lift some of the pressure on businesses.

The installment program applies to accommodation providers, as well as any taxpayer who can prove financial hardship. The local government hopes the program will help earthquake-affected citizens and the hospitality industry get through tough times.

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