TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Labor (MOL) announced plans on Friday (June 23) to allocate NT＄1 billion to an unemployment subsidy program aimed at alleviating labor shortages in Taiwan. The program now extends its benefits to include the hotel industry, restaurant workers, and ground crew, who will be eligible for a subsidy ranging from NT＄6,000 to NT＄10,000 per month for one year.
This expansion encompasses restaurant staff fulfilling roles in serving clients and working in the kitchen, who are now qualified to receive the subsidy. Upon joining the program and fulfilling the requirement of working full-time for 30 days, these individuals can receive a monthly subsidy of NT＄6,000 for one year. Regular workers seeking assistance through the program must remain unemployed for at least 30 days before registering.
In addition, individuals who have been unemployed for more than 14 days, including elderly people, people with disabilities, indigenous people, and female workers re-entering the job market after a prolonged absence, will qualify for the higher subsidy of NT＄10,000 per month. This policy will result in an annual income increase of at least NT＄72,000 for these individuals.
The ongoing pandemic has further exacerbated labor shortages in Taiwan. Although approximately 20,000 people could benefit from the program, experts warn that the subsidy needs to address the underlying issues related to improving employee retention rates. They suggest that catering groups offer more attractive compensation packages to retain talented individuals, including regular promotions and salary increases.
Wu Shu-ying, the head of the Employment Service Division at the Workforce Development Agency under the MOL, explained the eligibility criteria for employers in the restaurant industry to participate in the program. She stated, "A minimum monthly wage of NT＄32,000 is required to qualify for the subsidy."
The Workforce Development Agency has announced that further details regarding the aviation industry will be released at the right time, as the Ministry of Transportation and Communications is currently undergoing related procedures.