Taiwan has unveiled a digital ID wallet prototype, aiming for a nationwide rollout by year-end. MODA’s initiative focuses on citizen data control and streamlining access to public services. Concurrently, Thailand is progressing its digital wallet scheme under economic relief efforts, though it faces criticism regarding its effectiveness.
Taiwan’s government recently introduced a prototype for its digital identity wallet, advancing their digital transformation initiative. The Ministry of Digital Affairs (MODA) plans to initiate a trial sandbox by the end of the month, allowing for further development before a potential nationwide rollout by year’s end. Minister Huang Yen-nun highlighted that the wallet aims to give citizens control over their personal data in everyday transactions.
This new digital ID wallet will facilitate easy access to public services and enhance identification processes for international trade. The application will consolidate digital versions of identity documents, including national ID cards and health insurance cards, into one platform. Participation in the pilot program will be voluntary, focusing on ID verification for basic services like package collection.
In parallel, Thailand is advancing its own digital wallet scheme, having approved its third phase to aid approximately 2.7 million citizens under an economic relief program. Despite criticisms from lawmakers about previous phases’ expenditures and lack of economic benefits, the Thai government maintains that these measures are critical for economic recovery. The existing pilot program in Thailand began in October, distributing over $5.32 billion to citizens through digital wallets, yet concerns regarding unresolved issues persist.
Taiwan’s digital identity wallet is poised to enhance citizen engagement by providing secure access to personal data and digital services, while Thailand’s parallel initiative emphasizes economic stimulus despite facing criticism. Both countries illustrate the growing importance of digital wallets in modern economies and the challenges ahead in their implementation.
Original Source: www.biometricupdate.com
