The Taiwan Textile Federation (TTF) announcement urges the Taiwan textile industry, starting 1 January to adopt a policy that includes an Employer Pays Principle. Under this policy, Taiwan’s textile mills would pay all fees associated with recruitment of foreign migrant workers into Taiwan’s textile industry and adopt other steps to protect foreign migrant workers.

The Employer Pays Principle ensures that no worker pays for their job, preventing situations where a worker could end up in debt bondage or face other barriers preventing freedom of movement.

"Taiwan’s textile industry is already a leader in producing some of the world’s most advanced textiles. Today’s announcement elevates Taiwan’s textile industry further, ensuring its protection of foreign migrant workers aligns with its commitment to manufacturing excellence, reinforcing why it is such a critical partner for US and global brands and retailers,” said Steve Lamar, AAFA president and CEO.

AAFA and FLA, under the Commitment to Responsible Recruitment, signed by over 100 global brands and retailers, have been working since 2018 for global adoption of the Employer Pays Principle and better protections for foreign migrant workers in apparel, footwear, and accessories supply chains.

As part of the Commitment, AAFA and FLA continues to work with the Taiwan government towards updating rules, regulations, and resources to better protect foreign migrant workers in Taiwan.

"By championing the responsible recruitment and employment of migrant workers, TTF is not only doing what is right for workers, but also concretely supporting the alignment of Taiwan's textile mills with international labour standards and expectations. We look forward to working with TTF and the Taiwan textile industry to fully implement the Employer Pays Principle in Taiwan,” stated Jeff Vockrodt, FLA president and CEO.