EDITORIAL: Migrant labor rules reform urgentA labor broker last week was fined more than NT$10 million (US$318,279) for illegally charging migrant workers job-placement fees. Reports by labor rights groups and international organizations have found migrant workers paying US$5,000 to US$6,600 to secure jobs in Taiwan, often before they even arrive. When migrant workers are already deeply indebted upon their arrival, their ability to refuse unreasonable demands or seek help is severely constrained. As birthrates remain low, migrant labor has become essential across sectors ranging from manufacturing to hospitality and port operations. The nation’s growing dependence on migrant labor makes reform increasingly urgent.

Source: Taipei Times January 02, 2026 16:57 UTC