The latest report of the Labor Division listed the number of foreign workers with work permits to 7,294 which comprises of 32 different groups of nationality excluding United States and Bangladesh nationals.
Toribiong however said the report is more confusing that is why there is a need for an investigation or review on the matter.
The figure surpasses the foreign workers quota set by the government.
In a recent executive order from Toribiong, Palau can now hire only 6,000 guest workers and once this quota is met the labor division will deny application for new foreign work visas.
Toribiong signed the executive order restricting the number of foreign workers in Palau on Oct. 9.
Government statistics showed that there are 5,432 foreigners compared to 5,930 Palauans in the workforce.
Palau’s total workforce is 11,362.
From the recent record, 7,294 is inclusive of the 2,893 number of work permits yet to be confirmed whether or not non-resident workers have departed Palau.
The task force, Toribiong said will be composed of the Minister of Environment, Tourism and Natural Resources, presidential chief of staff and the Minister of Justice.
The probe will ensure that the Bureau of Immigration and the Division will coordinate with each other to address any discrepancies.
Toribiong said there is a need to utilize more resident workers and that the country should not be overly dependent on cheap foreign labor.
According to his executive order, in the event that the number of work visas exceed the quota, no new work visas will be issued but each existing work visa will continue in full force and effect.
Guest workers will also be permitted to renew their visas.
Government statistics showed that 8,223 are working for the private sector while 3,139 are working for the government.
Of the non-Palauan workers, 651 are domestic helpers, 167 are houseboys, 220 are helpers, 77 are farmers, 497 are fishermen, 106 are masseuses and 449 are waitresses.
The executive order was drafted based on the comments made during a recent labor forum, where Palauans expressed concern over the huge number of foreigners working in their country.
Toribiong said he has ordered the Division of Labor to provide him with new data on foreign workers.
He said the increasing number of foreign workers has suppressed the wages being paid to Palauan workers, causing unemployment among locals.
