No-Show from Employers at National Wage Panel Meeting to Address 400-Baht Minimum Wage
PUBLISHED: 17 Sep 2024 at 18:50
The national wage committee is set to reconvene on Friday to discuss the introduction of a 400-baht minimum wage for large employers nationwide starting on October 1, as confirmed by the Labour Minister.
During Monday’s session, the tripartite committee, consisting of employee, employer, and government representatives, faced a setback as all five employer representatives failed to attend. Only the employee and government members were present, according to an update from the minister.
The ministry received notice that “other engagements” were to blame for the absence of the employers’ representatives.
Historically, employers have expressed opposition to implementing a nationwide minimum wage of 400 baht, considering the current provincial minimum wage ranges from 330 to 370 baht.
Another invitation will be extended to the employers for the upcoming meeting, with the minister urging their participation to ensure they exercise their rights in the discussion.
Failure to attend a second time will lead to the assumption that the employers have waived their rights, he warned.
The minister reiterated that the meeting will proceed regardless, requiring a two-thirds majority to advance the proposed wage policy.
This raise is intended for businesses with a workforce of at least 200 employees, and the ministry remains optimistic that the policy will take effect on October 1.
In correspondence received from various trade organizations, concerns regarding readiness for a wage hike have been expressed. Nevertheless, with the cost of living continuing to rise, the minister emphasized the necessity of the policy to support workers.
“We must seek a balanced approach for both employers and employees to ensure mutual progress,” he stated.
