TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Lunar New Year in Taiwan is witnessing a shift from traditional family gatherings to a focus on earning additional income, according to recent statistics from a job-seeking website. The data indicates a 16-year high in workers' preference to work during the holiday, with nearly 99% of respondents eager to earn extra money.
As schools close for winter break, many students seize the opportunity to work part-time, attracted by wages that double or even triple during the first three days of the New Year. "Wages double from the first to the third day of the Lunar New Year. I find it worthwhile to work from the first to the sixth day. After all, I wouldn't know what to do at home," a student remarked.
Despite reduced operating hours in popular markets like Dihua and Nanmen, individuals are finding part-time work in regular restaurants and beverage shops, taking advantage of the increased pay rates during the holiday season.
The labor shortage in domestic-demand industries further amplifies the availability of part-time job opportunities, according to Yes123 spokesman Yang Tsung-pin. The Spring Festival is expected to see a surge in these roles compared to previous years.
The anticipation for holiday earnings is high, with individuals expecting to earn an average of NT＄16,000. With 9.17 million people willing to work during this period, the cumulative income is estimated to reach NT＄148.6 billion, marking a significant shift in how holidays are perceived and utilized for economic gain.
