TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The New Taipei City Government has launched support measures to assist 348 manufacturing workers from 49 companies placed on unpaid leave amid the impact of 20% US tariffs.

The initiative follows Ministry of Labor data showing that more than 6,000 workers nationwide have been placed on unpaid leave due to the tariff impact. To address this, the ministry is offering partial wage subsidies for full-time and part-time employees, per CNA.

New Taipei Labor Affairs Department Director Chen Jui-chia (陳瑞嘉) said 25 affected companies in the city are primarily in the machinery, metal products, and electrical equipment manufacturing sectors. He noted that New Taipei has been less severely impacted than industries in central and southern regions.

Chen said the department will assist affected companies in applying for the ministry’s subsidy program. Eligible workers can receive up to 70% of their monthly salary for a maximum of six months.

In addition to wage subsidies, the department offers support for affected workers to participate in skills training programs to develop new expertise. During the training period, eligible workers can receive subsidies of up to NT$17,000 (US$523).

If disputes arise between employers and employees over unpaid leave or wage reductions, the department will provide legal consultation and mediation services. The agency added the support measures will be extended to workers outside the manufacturing sector if necessary.

Lin Por-fong (林伯豐), chair of the Third Wednesday Club, said tariffs of over 15% on Taiwanese imports will significantly impact many export-oriented businesses. Sectors such as panel manufacturing, machinery, bicycles, and agriculture are particularly vulnerable to the tariff policies.