By Lee Hsin-fang / Staff reporterAs the bids for the nation’s first 5G auction have far exceeded expectations, the Executive Yuan would use the surplus profits to fund projects that would serve the public interest, Executive Yuan spokeswoman Kolas Yotaka said on Friday. The bids have totaled more than NT$138 billion (US$4.60 billion), more than tripling the National Communications Commission’s expectation of NT$44 billion, Kolas said. The Executive Yuan plans to use the money to finance 5G infrastructure, narrow the digital development gap between urban and rural areas, and promote online events that advance the public interest, she added. Academics have suggested setting up a dedicated fund to develop 5G infrastructure and boost the technical capabilities of related industries. Tsai has tasked the Executive Yuan with preparing the first version of the plan by May, the sources said.
