The remaining amendments comprising the “seven submarine cable laws” passed third reading at the legislature this Tuesday and will, among other stipulations, require vessels to activate their Automatic Identification System (AIS). Violators may be fined up to NT$10 million (US$317,300). 

In response to repeated incidents of submarine cable breakages around Taiwan, the Cabinet proposed the seven laws to strengthen cable protection, ensure essential public services, and enhance national security. The Legislature had already completed third readings for half the amendments the previous week, with lawmakers from both the ruling and opposition parties voicing support of the amendments.

In the future, all vessels operating within Taiwan's territorial sea baseline, internal waters, or restricted waters must keep onboard AIS equipment operational and transmit accurate vessel identification information at all times. Damage to meteorological facilities through negligence or other illegal means is punishable by fines up to NT$2 million (US$63,500), and any vessels involved in the theft or damage of submarine cables will be confiscated.