Taipei — In light of reciprocal U.S. tariffs, New Taiwan Dollar fluctuations, and shifting international trade conditions, Taiwan’s Ministry of Labor (MOL) has unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at protecting workers’ livelihoods and ensuring stable employment. These efforts are being carried out under the Special Act on Strengthening Economic, Social, Livelihood, and National Security Resilience in Response to Global Conditions, underscoring the government’s commitment to safeguarding labor rights.
The MOL emphasized that its employment security measures are designed to provide targeted assistance across industries, while also contributing NT$10 billion to the Labor Insurance Fund to strengthen financial stability and worker protection.
Five Major Employment Support Measures
1. Guaranteeing Wages and Stabilizing Employment
Effective August 1, wage stabilization measures have been expanded to cover nine industries. The subsidy ratio for workers facing reduced hours has been raised from 50% to 70%. Application rules have been eased, allowing workers to combine this benefit with the “Recharge Plan” for greater financial security.
2. Recharge Plan: Work Reduction with Training Opportunities
Since July 4, workers on reduced shifts who attend MOL-approved training programs may receive subsidies based on actual training hours, with a ceiling of NT$17,210. Additionally, employees earning between NT$28,590 and NT$30,300 are eligible for up to NT$2,280 per month in subsidies.
3. Additional Training for Enterprises
Launched in April, this initiative helps businesses enhance employee skills by offering internal or cooperative training subsidies of up to NT$2 million. The program’s application period has been extended through September to align with training plans for the coming year.
4. Integrated Support for Employers and Workers
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For Employers: Companies are encouraged to adopt a “hire first, train later” approach, with subsidies of up to NT$1.8 million annually. Employers may also access hiring subsidies of NT$36,000 per worker and up to NT$100,000 annually for job redesign efforts.
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For Workers: Employment incentives and job-hunting subsidies of up to NT$108,000 per person are available to assist individuals seeking work.
5. Youth Employment Assistance
Young jobseekers may apply for allowances and incentives totaling NT$48,000 during their job search. Unemployed youth participating in training programs can also receive NT$10,000 monthly, with a maximum payout of NT$120,000.
Boosting Livelihood Protection
Beyond employment initiatives, the MOL has earmarked an additional NT$10 billion for the Labor Insurance Fund to secure cash flow and ensure the long-term sustainability of Taiwan’s labor insurance system.
Officials stressed that policies will be adjusted in phases, depending on the evolving impact of tariffs and the broader global economy. The ministry reaffirmed its pledge to improve labor conditions, strengthen employment protections, and provide comprehensive support to workers across sectors.
