SHULIN DISTRICT, NEW TAIPEI CITY — A recycling facility in Shulin is under investigation after authorities uncovered suspected illegal employment practices involving dozens of Vietnamese nationals.
Acting on a confidential tip-off, the New Taipei City Special Task Force of the National Immigration Agency, together with officers from the Xinzhuang and Shulin police precincts, launched a coordinated inspection operation. They were joined by officials from the Environmental Protection Bureau and the Labor Bureau.
Upon arrival at the site, officers discovered several migrant workers hiding among large stacks of plastic bottles, enduring harsh conditions and foul odors in an attempt to avoid detection. A total of 45 Vietnamese workers were found at the facility.
Of those apprehended, 15 were identified as runaways with no legal status and are now facing deportation proceedings. The remaining 30 held valid work permits, but were illegally working part-time, a violation of Taiwan’s labor regulations.
Authorities revealed that these workers were being paid only NT$1,000 for an eight-hour shift, a wage far below the legal minimum.
Under the Employment Services Act, employers found guilty of hiring migrant workers without proper authorization may face fines of up to NT$750,000.
The recycling yard’s owner is currently believed to have fled overseas, and immigration officials are now working with international counterparts to locate and apprehend him.
In a statement, the National Immigration Agency reminded both employers and migrant workers that legal work permits do not allow part-time or unauthorized employment. Violating such conditions may lead to permit revocation and permanent disqualification from working in Taiwan.
The agency emphasized its continued commitment to protecting labor rights and cracking down on exploitation and illegal hiring practices across industries.
