Improving workers’ living standards

In recent times, as the cost of living continues to rise and the need for social welfare and stability becomes increasingly urgent, trade unions across Dong Nai have rolled out a wide range of benefit programs aimed at enhancing workers’ quality of life and ensuring sustainable development.

Amid rising living costs and growing demands for social welfare and stability among workers, trade unions at all levels across Dong Nai have implemented a range of welfare programs aimed at improving workers' quality of life and ensuring sustainable development.

Ensuring stable jobs and income for workers

According to the Provincial Labour Confederation, Dong Nai is currently home to more than 1.4 million workers. This core labour force plays a crucial role, consistently demonstrating enthusiasm in production and making significant contributions to the province’s economic growth. Workers’ wages and incomes have steadily improved, helping to raise living standards, ensure social welfare, and maintain stable labour relations. At present, the average monthly income of workers in Dong Nai exceeds 9.5 million VND.

Workers at Jason Furniture Vietnam Co., Ltd. (Dong Xoai III Industrial Park, Binh Phuoc Ward) during working hours. Photo courtesy of the trade union

In recent years, to attract and retain workers, trade unions at all levels have encouraged businesses to adjust wages in line with productivity and actual living costs. As a result, several major enterprises in industrial zones across areas such as Tran Bien, Long Binh, Tam Phuoc, Long Thanh, Nhon Trach, Trang Bom, Dong Xoai, and Binh Phuoc have implemented annual pay raises, performance-based bonuses, and various allowances for attendance, housing, transportation, and hazardous work. At the same time, investments in daycare centers, dormitories, and recreational facilities have helped meet the needs and aspirations of most workers, particularly those from outside the area.

Nguyen Thi Thanh Tin, Chairwoman of the Trade Union at Chien Vietnam Furniture MFG. Co., Ltd. (Tam Phuoc Ward), stated that the company currently employs 850 workers, all of whom have signed labour contracts. The average income of workers now reaches nearly 10 million VND per month. Despite global market challenges affecting the wood industry in recent years, the company has maintained stable employment and earnings for its workforce. The trade union has also successfully negotiated with the company to increase the regional minimum wage for workers beginning January 1, 2026.

“This is terrific news for workers, helping them increase their income and meet minimum living standards,” Nguyen Thi Thanh Tin shared.

Factories and businesses in Dong Nai are investing in technology, automation, and improved working conditions to reduce labour intensity and minimize occupational accidents. Duong Hoang An, Chairman of the Trade Union at Jason Furniture Vietnam Co., Ltd. (Dong Xoai III Industrial Park, Binh Phuoc Ward), stated that the company currently employs over 6,000 workers. In response to recruitment difficulties, the company has improved various welfare policies related to wages and bonuses to attract labour. It has also invested in modern production lines to enhance productivity and reduce physical effort for workers. Notably, the automated hanging conveyor system enables employees to work efficiently with minimal movement while maintaining output.

Since 2023, Dong Nai has been recognized for maintaining stable labour relations. Each year, workers are given opportunities to receive vocational training, improve their income, and secure a stable position within their companies. As a result, many workers not only enhance their skills and adapt to modern technology but also actively contribute innovations that help reduce costs, lower occupational health risks, and improve workplace safety. Trade unions have commended numerous exemplary workers, the Provincial People’s Committee, and businesses for initiatives effectively applied in production and operations.

Ensuring social welfare

During the 2023–2025 period, many worker-support initiatives by the Dong Nai Trade Union have been highly recognized by the Vietnam General Confederation of Labour. These include Tet care programs, collective weddings, the Trade Union Shelter housing initiative, and Workers’ Month. Since 2023, the Provincial Labour Confederation has built and repaired nearly 190 Trade Union Shelters at a total cost of 4.42 billion VND. Grassroots trade unions, in coordination with businesses, have also constructed 90 charity houses for workers, worth 4.7 billion VND. These efforts help address workers’ housing needs, enabling them to settle down, stabilize their lives, and remain attached to the locality.

Truong Thi Ngoc Cam, a worker from the PU Department of Pou Sung Vietnam Co., Ltd. (An Vien Commune, Dong Nai Province), recently received a Trade Union Shelter in a moment filled with joy and emotion. During the storms that occurred last June, the roof of her old house was torn off, the walls cracked, and the structure faced a risk of collapse. Cam’s circumstances are challenging: she has three young children, the youngest just 11 months old and suffering from a lung condition. Upon learning of her situation, the company’s trade union mobilized employees and the business to contribute 60 million VND to help her build a new, spacious, and clean home.

With the support of trade unions and businesses, workers’ employment conditions have improved. However, the current minimum wage still falls short of meeting basic living standards as the cost of living continues to rise. I hope the trade union will implement more practical action programs in the coming term to provide a stronger safety net, helping workers stay committed and feel secure in their jobs.

Le Van Sy, worker at Kenda Rubber (Vietnam) Co., Ltd., located in Ho Nai Ward, Dong Nai Province)

Alongside supporting workers in their daily lives, the Dong Nai Trade Union continues to expand Tet care programs, provide bus tickets for workers returning to their hometowns, and offer low-interest loans. In addition, discount sales programs and free reproductive health check-ups for female workers have been widely implemented. Parenting skills classes, domestic violence prevention workshops, and labour law education sessions are frequently held at businesses, attracting large numbers of participants. Cultural activities and sports events for workers are also regularly organized at all levels, from the province down to the grassroots. These initiatives help reduce stress, strengthen community bonds, and improve overall quality of life.

Thanks to these diverse support models, workers’ living conditions have gradually improved. However, housing shortages, rising living costs, and limited access to childcare continue to be pressing concerns. Improving workers’ livelihoods is seen as a key factor in promoting Dong Nai’s sustainable development. Looking ahead, the province aims that by 2030, 100% of workers will have access to affordable housing; real income will increase by at least 78% per year; industrial zones will be upgraded to meet green, safe, and modern standards; and a robust preschool system for workers’ children will be established.

By Nguyen Hoa – Translated by Quynh Giao, Minho