Number Plates News
Luck Runs Out for Taiwan Plate Investors
24 November 2009
In a rather sneaky and controversial move, the government in Taipel, Taiwan, plan to change the country's vehicle registration system so that plates may no longer be valid for an indefinite period.
This has provoked outrage from people who have spent small fortunes to get their hands on plates representing lucky numbers, which have proved very popular in this traditionally superstitious culture.
Politicians are, quite rightly, incensed and are demanding that the authorities refund the money paid in good faith by the number plate enthusiasts.
There is a real fear that tampering with the system could jeopardise the fledgling cherished number plates industry, which has already earned the Transportation and Communications ministry nearly £3m this year alone.
Under the new proposals, plates such as '8888-QQ' - which was sold recently for a sum equivalent to over £9000 - would cease to be legal after 2 to 4 years.
The numbers 6 and 8 symbolise, apparently, a "smooth road to success" in Taiwanese folklore. This controversy is certain, however, to be nothing like a smooth ride for investors and those eager to take their money.
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