Taiwan's Taichung mayoral race is heating up with rival giveaways and promises, good news for young entrepreneurs and older residents but a sign of a spending contest ahead of the November 28 vote.

• DPP candidate Ho Hsin-chun promises a new city youth bureau to handle jobs, startups, and international exchanges for young people.
• KMT candidate Chiang Chi-chen is pitching a NT$20,000 cash handout for residents, plus shingles vaccine subsidies and senior care card points that never expire.
• Ho is countering on the senior vote, pledging to keep health subsidies and widen the senior card to taxis, pharmacies, convenience stores, and farm co-op shops.
• Sitting mayor Lu Shiu-yen is backing Chiang, warning that senior health subsidies could be scrapped under the other side.

Outlook: Expect both camps to keep escalating cash and welfare promises as the November vote approaches.