Taiwan's Health Minister and Central Epidemic Command Center head Chen Shih-chung said mask distribution to overseas citizens will be considered once production of surgical masks in the country becomes stable, at a press conference on Saturday (March 14).
As part of its preventive measures against Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19), the Taiwan government on Jan. 24 banned the export of all surgical masks and said the government would take over production.
He pointed out that most governments have been unable to meet public demand because their countries have large populations and due to panic buying. Chen emphasized the CECC will start planning overseas mask distribution to all Taiwan nationals after domestic demand is satisfied.
The health minister said Taiwan has not requested that foreign visitors wear masks during their stays, so far, but the government is brainstorming ways for them to purchase masks. He added Taiwanese troops have been helping with mask packaging and will contribute to production if the virus situation worsens.
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