Taiwan to legislate for 40-hour working week

TAIPEI - Amendments to Taiwan’s Labor Standards Act approved by the Government Cabinet aim to bring local labour conditions in line with global standards while balancing the needs of employees and employers, says Premier Mao Chi-kuo.

Under the Act, a regular working week will be capped at 40 hours over five days, down from 84 hours per fortnight. Total permissible overtime is 54 hours per month, up from 46—an arrangement allowing businesses and workers greater flexibility.
The amendments, which the Government hopes to make effective from January 2016, stipulate a minimum 11-hour break for employees on a rotating schedule before changing shifts, as well as more favourable terms in claiming overtime hours and pay, especially for those providing essential and emergency services.
In addition, businesses are required to keep worker attendance records on a minute basis for five years, with violation subject to strict punishment. www.taiwantoday.tw (ATI).