FDI enterprises must maintain existing allowances for workers

Foreign direct investment (FDI) enterprises are not allowed to cut existing allowances and bonuses for workers while implementing the new wage policy, according to the Ministry of Labour, War Invalids and Social Affairs.

The new minimum wages for FDI enterprises apply only to unskilled workers, said the ministrys urgent document on the implementation of the salary decree, sent to peoples committees in provinces and cities and relevant ministries and branches on Jan. 11.

Under the new decree, as of February 1, 2006, Vietnamese labourers working at establishments with foreign investment will receive minimum monthly salaries of 870,000 VND, 790,000 VND, or 710,000 VND depending on workplace location.

The new minimum salaries will replace the minimum monthly wages of 626,000 VND, 556,000 VND, and 480,000 VND, which have been in effect since July 1, 1999.

The exchange rate for the US dollar now stands at 15,916 VND.

Vietnamese workers who were given vocational training courses will enjoy an increase of at least 7 percent of their minimum salaries.

For labourers who receive salaries as stipulated in labour contracts and enterprises payrolls, wages will be adjusted through the agreement between employers and employees. However, these wages must be suitable to prevailing wages and living costs in the market.

(Source: VNA)