Taipei: A labor rights group on Wednesday urged the Taiwanese government to take more proactive steps in helping companies prevent forced labor, following the release of a survey that revealed significant gaps in corporate awareness and action.

According to Focus Taiwan, Taiwan Labor Front Secretary-General Son Yu-liam highlighted the country’s critical position in the global supply chain, especially in electronics, and noted that awareness of forced labor risks within supply chains remains inadequate.

Citing the group’s recent survey of Taiwan’s 500 largest companies by paid-in capital (excluding financial and investment firms), Son revealed that only 18 percent of these companies have dedicated departments to address forced labor issues. The survey further indicated that nearly 80 percent of companies expressed a need for clearer government policy guidance and training on forced labor prevention, Son stated during a press conference.

While 70 percent of companies include anti-forced labor clauses in procurement contracts, Son noted that many lack complaint mechanisms and effective remedies for workers. Only 38.6 percent of the surveyed companies provide any form of redress, and over 90 percent reported never having received government assistance on the issue.

Son emphasized the necessity for Taiwan’s export-driven economy to align with international human rights standards. He called on the government to legislate corporate responsibility, offer training and support, and issue clear policy frameworks to ensure the prevention of forced labor in supply chains.