Minimum Wage to Exceed 30,000 After Just One More Adjustment: Lai Qingde Urges Companies to Raise Wages if Profitable

President Lai Qingde attended the National Model Workers Awards Dinner on the evening of the 7th and discussed the government's recent wage adjustment policies. He stated that the basic wage has risen from 20,008 TWD in 2016 to the current 29,500 TWD, emphasizing that 'just one more adjustment will push it over 30,000,' meaning Taiwan's minimum monthly wage will cross the 30,000 TWD threshold. He also called on businesses: 'If your company is profitable, you should share the gains with employees and raise wages.'

According to data from the Ministry of Labor, the 2026 minimum wage will be set at 29,500 TWD per month and 196 TWD per hour, benefiting approximately 2.47 million workers. Since 2016, the minimum wage has been raised for ten consecutive years, with a cumulative increase of 47.4% in the monthly rate.

Regarding when the basic wage will exceed 30,000 TWD, Lai, speaking at the event and reported by Sanlih News Network, recalled that when former President Ma Ying-jeou handed power to Tsai Ing-wen, the basic wage was 20,008 TWD. After years of adjustments, it has now reached 29,500 TWD. He emphasized, 'Just one more adjustment and it will exceed 30,000,' meaning that the minimum monthly wage for any job in Taiwan will stand at no less than 30,000 TWD.

On overall wage trends, Lai also mentioned adjustments to the compensation of military personnel, civil servants, and educators, stressing that the fruits of economic growth should be shared by all. He said he has consistently urged businesses through forums such as the Federation of Industrial Organizations and the Association for Promotion of Business, 'No matter where I go, I remind businesses: if you're making money, raise wages for workers. Do you all agree?'

Beyond wages, Lai also discussed the government's tax reduction policies. He noted that while people once said 'the Republic of China taxes everything,' the government is now promoting tax cuts to make life more affordable for ordinary families and salaried workers. Families with children or elderly dependents can reduce their tax burdens through various deductions.

Lai added that a significant portion of the population already pays no comprehensive income tax, while high-income groups bear a larger share of the tax burden. He emphasized that the policy direction is 'the more you earn, the more you pay.' With sufficient government revenue, it can further support grassroots citizens.