TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The impact of US tariffs has forced more than 6,000 workers in Taiwan to take reduced hours, with most cases in manufacturing.

The Ministry of Labor said Tuesday that 6,246 workers were affected by US tariffs, up 3,191 from the previous period, per CNA. Across all causes, 333 companies and 7,334 workers reported reduced hours, up from 245 companies and 4,863 workers on Sept. 1.

Huang Chi-ya (黃琦雅), director of the MOL’s Department of Standards and Equal Employment, said the surge came mainly from manufacturing, with 80 additional companies and 2,391 more workers — about 97% of the increase.

Machinery and metalworking were hardest hit, with 231 companies and 5,731 workers reporting cuts. Machinery and equipment manufacturing accounted for 125 companies and 3,247 workers.

Huang said 242 companies, covering 6,246 workers, cited US tariffs as the cause, roughly 80% of all cases.

She added the MOL began promoting enhanced employment stabilization measures on Aug. 1, prompting more firms to report and incorporate the program into workforce planning. Of those reporting, 244 companies are eligible, covering 5,940 workers — more than 80% of those affected.

Eligible workers can apply for wage-difference subsidies, with the MOL covering 70% of the gap while employers pay at least the minimum wage. The goal is to support workers’ livelihoods and ease burdens on businesses.

The policy applies to nine industries: food and feed, textiles, rubber, plastics, metal products, electrical equipment, machinery, automobiles and parts, and other transport equipment and parts. Workers with more than 30 days of reduced hours per month can receive up to NT$12,100.