Taiwan is set to announce that it will extend its compulsory military service to better prepare the country for a potential war with China.

While speaking to reporters, Taiwanese Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-Cheng alluded that mandatory military service for men would be extended from four months to at least one year. The policy change will likely begin in 2025. When asked if the potential change is necessary, Defense Minister Chiu responded, “The military’s thinking is very straightforward. How do we increase our military capabilities and enhance our training? Those are the considerations. Protecting our country is everybody’s shared responsibility.”

Current policy:
Taiwan’s current policy requires men to serve at least four months in the Taiwanese military. The current policy has been in effect since 2018. Before that policy, men were required to serve between one and two years since 2008.