BANGKOK, 22 April 2012 – The government has decided to turn down the private sector’s request for postponement in the implementation of the minimum wage hike policy to 2015, reasoning that the policy will enhance the competitiveness of the Thai workforce.
Acting Government Spokesperson Anusorn Iamsa-ard said that the private sector is set to submit a proposal to the government in hopes of reducing the impact from the daily minimum wage hike to 300 baht as well as delaying its entry into force in 70 provinces across the country from 2013 to 2015. The private sector is also expected to suggest the establishment of a 10-20 billion-baht fund to serve as loans for SME businesses.
Mr. Anusorn said that the government realizes the industrial sector’s important roles in propelling the Thai economy and that it is ready to take into consideration opinions from all relevant sides. Mr. Anusorn also expressed his gratitude, on behalf of the government, towards the President of the Federation of Thai Industries, Mr. Phayungsak Chartsuthipol, for having worked closely and shared his visions on the matter with the government.
However, Mr. Anusorn stated that the government has decided to raise the minimum wage per day to 300 baht in order to assist the Thai workforce as well as elevate their potentials and competitiveness to be on par with other countries. Thus, the government will work hard to enhance the skills of workers in Thailand to match with the higher wage.
