Logistics firm accused of "sweatshop" conditions; labor inspection issues fines

A logistics company affiliated with Taiwan's Uni-President conglomerate is under scrutiny and has been fined by labor authorities for alleged "sweatshop" working conditions. The accusations surfaced following a fire at one of its facilities in April, leading to an investigation by the Tainan City Labor Affairs Bureau.

Inspectors found that employees were allegedly working more than 12 hours a day and were not provided with scheduled days off, violating Taiwan's Labor Standards Act. The law stipulates that daily work hours should not exceed 12 hours, and monthly overtime should not surpass 46 hours. The company faces potential fines ranging from NT$20,000 to NT$1 million.

Employees have accused the company's management of implementing cost-cutting measures that led to understaffing and excessive workloads. They claim that long hours and deprivation of rest have become commonplace, forcing younger employees to resign. Older workers, with fewer alternative job options, reportedly endure the pressure and long hours, leading to physical and mental exhaustion.

In response to the allegations, the company stated that it adheres to labor regulations and that all overtime work and payments comply with legal requirements. They attributed the recent surge in working hours to a special situation requiring emergency support, assuring that overtime pay and meals were provided. The company also acknowledged the contributions of its colleagues during this period.

Adding to the controversy, employees also suggested that the April fire at the Taichung logistics center might be linked to cost-saving measures and staff reductions. They claim that a workplace safety position was eliminated late last year and only reinstated after the fire. While no direct evidence was provided for this claim, employees expressed concerns about management's perceived lack of attention to frontline operations, fearing further issues could arise.