TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Minister of Labor Hsu Ming-chun refuted rumors on Thursday (Nov. 16) that 100,000 Indian workers would be imported, clarifying that discussions on sector quotas and worker eligibility have not yet begun.
The Ministry of Labor (MOL) suspects some individuals are deliberately spreading false information, causing public panic, and urged the public not to fall prey to such misinformation tactics.
Rumors arise as Taiwan is in the planning stages of signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for labor cooperation with India, leading to speculation of a massive influx of Indian workers.
Speculations have spurred some social media users to debate India's frequent reports of violence against women and express concerns over potential impacts on social security in Taiwan.
Hsu noted that changes in demographics, including lower birthrates and an aging population, have led to labor shortages in various industries, leaving the government to explore new foreign labor source countries actively.
At present, only four such countries have agreements with Taiwan, but India is seen as a promising potential addition, Hsu explained.
Hsu reaffirmed that the MOU has not yet been signed, and terms of importing labor from India are still under discussion.
The MOL will take strict precautions and enhance social communication to keep the public informed about the process, she added.