The Labor Ministry announced a new Transnational Workforce Enhancement Program that will enable the tourism and accommodation industry to hire more migrant workers. The plan was approved by the Cabinet on Thursday, with National Chamber of Commerce Chairman Paul Hsu (許舒博) pointing out on Friday that this program will be very helpful to large hotel groups experiencing workforce shortages.

Hsu detailed that companies that raise local wages will get more foreign worker slots — if the salary of a full-time local worker is increased by NT$2,000 (approximately US$65) per month, a business will be able to add one “skilled” migrant worker under the program allowance. In addition, senior migrant workers will be able to apply for permanent residency, and the government will also be recruiting directly, reducing the need for intermediaries.

However, the new policy has drawn criticism from labor groups, who are calling into question whether the higher worker quotas will help address the low wages and ongoing exploitation faced by the migrant workforce. Domestic Caretaker Union Secretary-General Grace Huang (黃姿華) said the policy is likely a response to recent negative international focus on Taiwan’s migrant workers, and urged the government to take serious action rather than simply making symbolic announcements.

The new plan is expected to launch on New Year's Day 2026.