The tri-partite wage committee in Thailand is unable to finalize the 400-baht national minimum wage until receiving proposed rates from provinces by July 31st. Employers are concerned about the impact on small businesses and competitiveness.
Wage Committee Awaits Proposed Rates from Provinces
The tri-partite wage committee in Thailand is unable to finalize the 400-baht national minimum wage until it receives proposed rates from individual provinces, as stated by Labour Permanent Secretary Pairoj Chotikasathien. Each province’s governor must submit the appropriate minimum wage by July 31st, following the government’s announcement that the national minimum wage will apply to all occupations from October 1st.
Disagreement Over National Minimum Wage
The Federation of Thai Industries and some entrepreneurs have expressed their disagreement with a single national minimum wage for all workers, citing the varying economic situations and costs of living in different provinces. They argue that small and medium-sized enterprises will be adversely affected, potentially leading to staff reductions or business closures. Employers on the wage committee have rejected the calculation method for wage rates, setting the stage for further discussions after July 31st.
