Taiwan's cabinet is rolling out a nationwide discount campaign to honor soldiers around the September 3 Armed Forces Day, a goodwill push aimed at boosting public support for the military.

• 640 retail, restaurant, night market and shopping district brands signed on, covering more than 22,000 stores.
• That is a big jump from last year, when 62 brands and about 20,000 stores took part.
• 69 government-run venues will offer free entry or discounts, and Taipei Main Station will host a military equipment display and recruiting event in early September.
• Premier Cho Jung-tai wants the campaign to build public understanding of defense work, not just hand out deals.

Outlook: The events run through the first week of September, with the government pushing more small businesses and local markets to join each year.