Real Regular Earnings of NT$ 38,179 for First Half of 2018|國人平均實質薪資38179元 倒退17年

The latest statistics on average salaries has just been published! During the first half of 2018, average monthly salaries hit an 18-year high. However, the growth of salaries has been unable to keep up with the growth in commodity prices. At NT$ 38,179, worker's "real regular earnings" were actually lower than the level of salaries in 2001.


For newcomers, the salary is around NT$ 36,000. Those with experience can earn at least NT$ 40,000 and even NT$ 50,000.

Printed circuit board manufacturer Unimicron is currently recruiting and offering starting salaries of NT$ 31,000 to NT$ 55,000. Mr. Zou, who was recently let go from Motech Industries in its first round of layoffs, has applied for a job, hoping to start work after the Lunar New Year. Although he has experience in the electronics industry, he is afraid of setting his salary requirement too high.

I just lost my job, and right now I am just seeking to pass the interview.

Meanwhile, in the food and beverage service industry, the turnover rate is extremely high. As a result, there are many jobs available right now.

We are currently seeking associate managers, and they have the opportunity to be promoted to store manager or regional manager. Our starting salary is NT$ 29,000, with a maximum of NT$ 53,000.

Some firms are offering starting salaries of NT$ 31,000 as they recruit before the Lunar New Year. For higher level positions, such as engineers, salaries are around NT$ 70,000. However, according to the latest statistics from the Directorate-General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics, the average "real regular earnings" were NT$ 38,179 in the first half of 2018. During the same period in 2001, the number was NT$ 38,320, or NT$ 141 more. This means salaries have been regressing for 17 years.

The commodity price changes that affect the salaried class include eating out expenses, rent, and some commuting expenses. In recent years, they have all grown rapidly, and the growth greatly exceeds the consumer price index.

The Ministry of Economic Affairs recently announced the export order total for December 2018, and the year-on-year decline was over 10 percent. Scholars say the economy is not expected to do well this year, and companies will encounter difficulties. Salaries have been regressing for 17 years, and the situation isn't expected to get better if companies are unable to make profits.