Labor rights groups are calling for the government to raise the minimum monthly wage to NT$26,000 (US$940). The call came during protests on Friday outside two prominent Taiwanese industrial organizations.
Right now, Taiwan’s monthly minimum wage is NT$24,000 (US$870), with a minimum hourly wage of NT$160 (US$5.80).
The labor ministry says it wants to help workers as much as possible, but any decision to raise the minimum wage has to be examined by the proper committee.
The committee looks at a number of factors before deciding each year’s minimum wage. Those factors include economic growth, labor productivity, inflation, and household income.
The labor ministry says the committee has not yet confirmed the next date it will meet.
The ministry is also encouraging labor groups to sign working conditions agreements with company management representatives. It says it can provide professional assistance for any negotiations.