Legislative Yuan President Han Kuo-yu reaffirmed the economic slogan at the labor appreciation event, highlighting the crucial role of labor in Taiwan's economy.

On May 4, 2025, President of the Legislative Yuan Han Kuo-yu attended the National Labor Union Federation's "2025 Model Worker Commendation Conference" in Taipei, emphasizing the reliance of Taiwan's economy on the hard work of its labor force and urging the government to focus on the labor needs of small and medium-sized enterprises as well as traditional industries. He reiterated the economic slogan, "Goods must be exported, and people must be welcomed," and highlighted the pressure U.S. tariffs place on Taiwan's small and medium-sized enterprises, urging the government to offer more support to tackle international trade challenges.

Workers are the Foundation of the Economy: Han Kuo-yu Expresses Respect in His Speech

At the "2025 Model Workers Commendation Conference" held in Taipei, Han Kuo-yu attended and delivered a speech in his capacity as the Speaker of the Legislative Yuan. He began by quoting former President Tsai Ing-wen, who once said, "Workers are the government's softest spot," expressing that this statement is moving and admitting that "it's hard to surpass this statement with anything I say." He humorously added, "After thinking for a long time, I finally came up with a phrase: All of you workers are the darlings of Taiwan's economy, so this should top it, right?"

Han Kuo-yu pointed out that Taiwan's economic development is not easy and requires the entire population to "blood, sweat, and tears" to maintain the happiness of 23 million people. He emphasized, "Money isn't everything, but without money, nothing is possible," and stated that the economy is the foundation of national development; without the economy, there is nothing.

Urging the Government to Focus on Non-High-Tech Industry Workers

In his speech, Han Kuo-yu noted that Taiwan currently has about 11 million workers, but only about 900,000 are employed in high-tech industries. He reminded the government, "If resources and policies are only concentrated on high-tech industries, who will care for the other nearly ten million workers?" He specifically mentioned small and medium-sized enterprises, farmers, fishermen, and freelancers, urging the government to continue investing care and resources, like Chen Rui, the Chairman of the National Federation of Labor Unions, to build a healthy economic environment and harmonious society.

He further pointed out that large enterprises have resources such as lawyers, accountants, capital, and equipment, and can develop independently as long as the government provides good conditions; in contrast, small and medium-sized enterprises have limited resources and need more government support and assistance.

Economic Challenges Under the Pressure of Three Pressures

In his speech, Han Kuo-yu described Taiwan as currently facing economic pressure from "three pressures," with the first being the 32% tariff imposed by the United States on Taiwanese products. He pointed out that this tariff makes it unbearable for many small and medium-sized enterprises, with profits almost wiped out. He illustrated with examples, such as a pair of brothers who processed Taiwanese carrots and sweet potatoes into pet food and achieved impressive sales on Amazon, but struggled to survive due to high tariffs; another couple invented a magnetic pen that can stand upright, performing well in the international market but also facing difficulties due to tariff issues.

Han Kuo-yu stated that these entrepreneurs mostly rely on support from family and friends or bank loans to start their businesses, making them more vulnerable to international trade pressures. He emphasized, "These people are truly remarkable, and the government should provide more support."

Reiterating Economic Slogans: Emphasizing Openness and Circulation

In his speech, Han Kuo-yu reiterated his long-standing economic slogan: "Goods must be exported, people must be welcomed, for society to prosper and create wealth." He pointed out that if products cannot be exported and tourists cannot enter, it is difficult for any country to maintain economic prosperity. He urged the government to actively face international trade challenges, assist enterprises in expanding overseas markets, and improve labor conditions and salary environments.

He also mentioned that Taiwan's land area accounts for only 0.003% of the global total, and its population only 0.3%, but its industrial products account for 3% of the global share, demonstrating Taiwan's importance in the global economy. He emphasized, "We don't have oil, natural gas, gold, or diamonds; Taiwan's economy is built on the hard work of all its people."

Balancing Economy and Labor: Calling for Policy Balance

At the end of his speech, Han Kuo-yu reiterated that economic development and workers' welfare should be equally important. He stated, "If workers can have better working conditions and better pay, it is very important for Taiwan." He urged the government to consider the needs of different industries and levels, especially small and medium-sized enterprises and grassroots workers, when promoting industrial policies.

He concluded by stating that, as the Speaker of the Legislative Yuan, he will continue to focus on labor rights and economic development and work hand in hand with all sectors to create a fairer and more prosperous Taiwan.

References

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• 「勞工是台灣經濟的心肝寶貝」　韓國瑜：貨出去人進來、發大財 | ETtoday政治新聞 | ETtoday新聞雲
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