The Garment Manufacturers Association in Cambodia (GMAC) has urged the ministry of labor and vocational training to delay the 2021 minimum wage negotiations, arguing that the 2020 wage levels should remain intact as the sector is vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic. GMAC said since many factories have suspended operations and some are closing, support in the form of delaying the negotiations is necessary to help stabilize the sector.
The ministry issued a notification on June 10 on the schedule of minimum wage negotiations in the textile, garment and footwear sector for 2021, scheduled to take place from July to September. A ministry spokesperson, however, said the negotiations will continue as scheduled without any delay.
The Collective Union of Movement of Workers is worried that in future workers will suffer even more if the New Year minimum wage is not raised and other benefits are also reduced.
