ZENROREN pays a working visit to Dong Nai

On October 30, a Japanese delegation from the National Confederation of Trade Unions (ZENROREN), led by President Masaomi Akiyama, paid a working visit to Terumo BCT Vietnam Co., Ltd. in Binh An commune, Dong Nai province to learn about the company’s production and business activities, as well as its trade union’s employee care models. Accompanying the delegation was Nguyen Quoc Dung, Member of the Provincial Party Committee (PPC), Vice President of the Vietnam Fatherland Front (VFF) Committee of Dong Nai province, and Chairman of the Dong Nai Labor Federation.

Terumo BCT Vietnam’s representative introduces the company and its trade union model. Photo: Thao My

According to Terumo BCT Vietnam’s representative, the company was established in 2013 in Dong Nai with a total investment of nearly US$175 million. It specializes in manufacturing medical equipment (including blood bags and automated systems for separating and collecting blood components) for global markets. To date, the company employs over 1,200 employees.

The working delegation exchanges views with the enterprise during the working session. Photo: Thao My

The company’s grassroots trade union was established in November 2014 with 70 initial members. The number has since increased to nearly 1,200, with female workers accounting for 56%. Over the years, the grassroots union has played an active role in negotiating welfare policies and incorporating them into collective labor agreements. Thanks to these efforts, the company has witnessed no strikes or labor disputes in more than 10 years of operation.

The working delegation tours the company’s production process. Photo: Thao My

The company’s trade union has provided timely support to members facing difficulties, serious illnesses, or other hardships… It has also organized cultural and sports activities to enhance workers’ morale and well-being. Various emulation movements have been widely launched, encouraging workers to participate in initiatives that improve productivity and promote cost savings. Meanwhile, the company has ensured proper implementation of salary, bonus, and welfare policies, maintaining stable employment and income for its workforce.

The working delegation visits the company’s production model. Photo: Thao My

During the working session, the working delegation engaged in direct discussions and shared practical experiences in trade union operations, particularly in adapting to new labor contexts. The delegation also toured the factory to better understand the production process and the working environment of employees.

After hearing the company’s presentation, ZENROREN President Masaomi Akiyama praised the effectiveness of the enterprise’s trade union model, emphasizing its contribution to creating a safe, cohesive, and reassuring working environment for employees.

Akiyama noted that Japan is currently facing labor shortages due to an aging population, leading to an increasing number of foreign workers, including those from Vietnam. He said ZENROREN is advocating for higher minimum wages and expressed his desire to replicate successful union models and further develop trade union structures within Japanese-invested enterprises in line with Vietnam’s Trade Union Law and Japanese union culture.

The working delegation takes a photo with company representatives. Photo: Thao My

“We believe that the Japanese-style enterprise trade union model, if flexibly applied in Dong Nai, can promote mutual growth between employers and workers. Establishing effective trade unions within enterprises will help strengthen trust and foster positive labor relations, thereby improving workers’ rights and welfare,” said Masaomi Akiyama.

By Thao My – Translated by M.Nguyet, Thu Ha