Launch Technologies yet to issue statement on factory blast

PINGTUNG (TVBS News) — An explosion at a factory of the Launch Technologies Co. Ltd., a golf ball manufacturer in Pingtung Technology Industrial Park, on Friday (Sept. 22) has resulted in hundreds of casualties. The company has yet to issue a detailed statement regarding the blazing fire.

Launch Technologies, founded on July 28, 2006, and officially listed in 2014, is a major name in golf ball manufacturing. It accounts for roughly 20% of the global golf ball market, with every second ball exported domestically identified as its product.

The company reportedly employed approximately 680 people, with a capital of around NT＄520 million.

According to its annual report, the firm shipped approximately 21.7 million packets of golf balls last year, marking a 20% increase and a company record. 

Following last night's explosions, allegations of labor law violations and poor working conditions have plagued the company. One former worker claimed he only received a base salary of NT＄21,150 and was forced to work overtime. Five employees also accused Launch Technologies in 2011 of working long hours.