In February 2026, Taiwan’s Ministry of Labour introduced guidelines designed to curb forced labor in response to international trade enforcement measures, notably by the United States. This regulatory push addresses criticisms regarding labor abuses affecting Taiwan’s 870,000 migrant workers. The guidelines attempt to mitigate forced labor by providing tools such as self-assessment guides for businesses, yet they have been criticized for failing to tackle systemic issues like debt bondage and insufficient legal protections for homecare workers, a group notably excluded from many labor laws.
The guidelines came on the heels of an investigation by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) into Giant Manufacturing. The investigation revealed forced labor indicators in the company’s supply chain, including wage withholding and excessive overtime. This action resulted in a Withhold Release Order against Giant’s products, drawing attention to labor practices across the industry (Jurist).
The problem of forced labor is deeply rooted in Taiwan’s historical reliance on migrant workers. Since opening its borders to address labor shortages in the late 20th century, Taiwan has depended on a workforce primarily composed of Southeast Asian migrants. They find employment in labor-intensive industries, which include manufacturing, construction, and fishing. Despite their substantial contributions, these workers face significant rights abuses, often embedded in Taiwan’s legislative framework. For instance, the 1992 Employment Service Act restricts the freedom of migrant workers to change employers, compounding their vulnerability.
Debt bondage is another critical issue, arising from high recruitment fees charged by agencies. These fees and the employment cap imposed by the government exacerbate the financial burden on workers, forcing many into debt even before starting their jobs. The Employment Service Act exacerbates poor working conditions through fixed-term contracts, rendering workers reluctant to advocate for improved conditions for fear of non-renewal.
The introduction of these guidelines is part of Taiwan’s efforts to improve its international image and respond to the global scrutiny of forced labor. However, critics argue these steps are insufficient without substantial legislative overhaul. For instance, homecare workers remain particularly vulnerable, as they are excluded from protections under Taiwan’s Labor Standards Act, leaving them without guarantees for minimum wage or reasonable working hours.
Efforts to manage forced labor risks align with Taiwan’s broader strategic goals to maintain favorable trade relations, especially with countries like the United States. While these guidelines signify progress, experts emphasize the need for comprehensive reforms to effectively safeguard migrant workers’ rights and meet international labor standards.