The 0.2 percent decease also applied to the underemployment rate, pushing the figure down to 1.8 percent between July and September.

For the unemployment rate, more distinct decreases were observed in the decoration, repair and maintenance for buildings sector; and food and beverage service activities sector. As to the underemployment rate, decreases were mainly seen in the food and beverage service activities sector and education sector.

“The labor market improved further alongside the continued revival of domestic economic activities,” Secretary for Labor and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han said.

“The labor market outlook will depend on the extent of further revival of domestic economic activities. While the generally stable local epidemic situation and the consumption voucher scheme should continue to support domestic demand, the tightened financial conditions may partially offset the positive effects,” Sun added.

He called on the community to continue to work hard with the government in containing the pandemic.

The data also showed the total employment increased by around 19,600 to 3,628,900; and the labor force climbed by around 13,000 to 3,784,200.

The number of unemployed people declined by around 6,600 to 155,300; and the number of underemployed people decreased by around 7,400 to 69,000.