New: Proposed regional minimum wage increase set at 5.3%

After many hours of negotiation, the proposed increase in the regional minimum wage in 2019 is 5.3% compared to 2018.

This morning (August 13), the National Wage Council held its third meeting to agree on the proposed increase in regional minimum wages for workers in 2019.

After many hours of negotiation, representatives of businesses and workers found a common voice, agreeing on the proposed increase in the regional minimum wage in 2019 of 5.3% compared to 2018. Thus, the corresponding increase in the regional minimum wage in region 1 is200,000 VND; region 2 is 180,000 VND; regions 3 and 4 are both 160,000 VND.

This increase will be submitted to the Government for decision in the coming time.

Previously, at two tense meetings, the National Wage Council was unable to finalize the regional minimum wage increase for 2019.

In 2018, the proposed and accepted regional minimum wage increase was 6.8%, and in 2017 it was 7.3%.

In the first meeting, the employers proposed not to increase the regional minimum wage to create momentum for business development. The Vietnam General Confederation of Labor (VGCL) proposed an increase of 8%.

At the second session,Representatives of employers including the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) proposed a 2% increase, the Cooperative Alliance proposed a 4% increase, and representatives of the Association of Small and Medium Enterprises and the Leather, Footwear, and Textile Association supported the increase but did not give a specific figure.

However, the Vietnam General Confederation of Labor is still determined with the proposed rate of 8% and has provided figures showing that the economic situation is showing many positive signs, while the lives of workers are still facing many difficulties, not meeting the minimum living standards.

Previously, in 2018, the proposed and accepted regional minimum wage increase was 6.8%, and in 2017 it was 7.3%./.