The National Minimum Wage Council held its inaugural meeting this week to begin negotiations for the 2027 minimum wage. The process involves representatives from the government, labor unions, and employers, focusing on the garment, textile, footwear, and travel goods industries—a sector that employs nearly one million workers.
Labor Minister Heng Sour stated that the initial session allowed stakeholders to review economic data and ministry-compiled criteria, including inflation, productivity, and national competitiveness. While the current monthly minimum wage stands at $210, workers and union leaders have expressed concerns that this amount is insufficient to keep pace with rising fuel and food costs.
Yang Sophorn, president of the Cambodian Alliance of Trade Unions, noted that while specific wage proposals are still being finalized, the primary focus must remain on the actual living conditions of employees. Similarly, union leader Ath Thorn suggested that a wage of $250 would better reflect current economic realities, though he acknowledged the difficulty of securing such an increase. Some workers, such as 33-year-old garment sewer Koeut Sokny, have expressed hope for at least a modest raise to help manage daily expenses.
The ministry emphasized that the final decision will be based on seven established criteria, including family circumstances and sector profitability. Minister Sour cautioned that it is too early to determine a specific figure, noting that the goal is to balance worker needs with the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of the industry. Tripartite meetings are scheduled to continue throughout September 2026 to facilitate further negotiations.
Source: CamboJA News
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