The Taiwan Monthly

ESG

Sustainability assurance exchange sessions successfully concluded, strengthening the quality of sustainability disclosure

To help sustainability information assurance institutions stay current with regulatory developments as well as strengthen practical assurance capabilities, the Taiwan Stock Exchange (TWSE) and the Taipei Exchange (TPEx) jointly held two “Sustainability Information Assurance Institutions Advocacy and Exchange Sessions” in Taipei and Taichung on July 3 and July 17. The sessions brought together accredited CPA firms alongside verification institutions to deepen their understanding of sustainability disclosure requirements and assurance practices, while also facilitating practical exchange of experience.

 

As listed companies will adopt the IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards in phases starting from fiscal year 2026, the scope and depth of sustainability-related disclosures will continue to expand, in tandem with the complexity and professional demands of assurance in addition to advisory work are expected to increase accordingly. The TWSE noted that assurance institutions play a critical role in enhancing the quality and credibility of sustainability information, so it should continue strengthening their understanding of the disclosure framework, related regulations, and practical implementation requirements.

 

The sessions focused on key topics including international alignment of the sustainability disclosure regime, the regulatory framework governing assurance institutions, and practical observations from sustainability information reviews. In addition to explaining the overall policy direction for listed companies’ sustainability development including the disclosure requirements following adoption of the IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards, the sessions also provided detailed guidance on the relevant directions plus Q&A materials for assurance institutions, including accreditation requirements, maintenance obligations, and practical matters requiring attention. Observations from the 2024 review of sustainability reports, including common deficiencies along with suggested improvements, were also shared to help participants enhance assurance quality.

 

Separate breakout exchange sessions were also arranged for CPA firms and verification institutions to discuss issues related to qualification applications together with practical implementation, allowing for more focused interaction based on the needs of each type of institution.

 

Looking ahead, the TWSE will continue to work with the competent authorities and relevant institutions through policy outreach, practical guidance, in addition to diversified exchange mechanisms to support both assurance institutions and listed companies in improving the quality of sustainability disclosure coupled with  assurance, strengthen market confidence in sustainability information, and enhance the resilience, transparency of Taiwan’s capital market.

 

For further information, please contact Ms. Lin at 1509@twse.com.tw.