TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Minister of Labor Hsu Ming-chun confirmed on Wednesday (Aug. 16) that the Basic Wage Commission is scheduled to convene in early September to deliberate on the possibility of raising the minimum wage.
Taiwan's minimum wage is anticipated to adjust between 3% and 3.2%. This adjustment would propel the monthly salary to fall between NT＄27,192 and NT＄27,245, while the hourly remuneration would be NT＄182.
The Ministry of Labor has emphasized that the impending salary increase will affect inflation and economic growth. However, the precise increment will ultimately hinge on the recommendations put forth by the Basic Wage Commission.
Nonetheless, numerous citizens have voiced their dissatisfaction, asserting that even with an increment, their salaries remain inadequate, especially in the face of elevated inflation, which has cascading effects on their daily livelihoods. They further conveyed to reporters the challenges of accumulating savings after covering rent and essential expenses.
"Income is tight, necessitating the need for discerning choices. Consider, for instance, our children's education expenses — an aspect we cannot compromise on," shared a woman in an interview with TVBS.
In line with the most recent data released by the Directorate General of Budget, Accounting, and Statistics, the June consumer price index (CPI) exhibited a mere uptick of 1.75%. This marks the first instance in 23 months that the CPI has dipped below the 2% threshold.
Notwithstanding, the cumulative average CPI spanning from January to June of this year registered a 2.32% escalation compared to last year.