Taipei:Most men and women of childbearing age in Taiwan believe they need at least NT$1.5 million (US$45,746) in savings before considering having children, as revealed by the "2026 Taiwan Childbearing Needs Survey."

According to Focus Taiwan, the largest group of respondents, accounting for 37.1 percent, indicated they would require at least NT$1.5 million in flexible savings, excluding funds earmarked for purchasing a home. Additionally, 22.4 percent of participants stated they would need between NT$1 million and NT$1.5 million, resulting in 59.5 percent of respondents needing at least NT$1 million in savings before starting a family.

Regarding household income, 30 percent of respondents expressed the need for a monthly income between NT$90,000 and NT$120,000, while 20.6 percent cited a requirement of NT$120,000 to NT$150,000. Another 24.4 percent suggested the need for an income exceeding NT$150,000. However, 66.6 percent of participants earn approximately NT$700,000 per year, highlighting the gap between their current financial situations and the conditions they consider necessary for childbearing, noted Vivian Chen, an attending physician at the Taipei Fertility Clinic's reproductive center.

Chen proposed that the government establish a "childbirth reserve account" for married couples planning to have children, with government contributions based on household income. This account could cover expenses such as prenatal checkups, fertility treatments, and infant care, with specific guidelines for withdrawals and recovery of unused funds.

The survey also indicated that 43.5 percent of respondents desire more accessible and affordable childcare services, while 36.1 percent prefer more flexible working hours over extended parental leave or reduced daily working hours.

Tzeng Chii-ruey, another physician at the clinic, observed that couples often delay having children due to career concerns, potentially missing optimal reproductive years. He recommended that the government encourage larger companies to offer childcare services, suggesting cooperative childcare centers in industrial and office areas to meet employee needs. These initiatives could promote family growth, help retain talent, and address Taiwan's declining birthrate.

Conducted online in June and July, the survey gathered 1,244 responses from men and women aged 26-45, with women constituting 64.6 percent of participants. The majority of respondents were aged 31-40 and resided in Taiwan's six special municipalities.