Thailand unlikely to implement blanket minimum wage

The tripartite national wage committee is expected to propose a hike in minimum wages in August, but a flat-rate wage of 492 baht (US$14.3) a day is unlikely.
By: | April 29, 2022
Topics: Compensation and Benefits | Health and Wellness | News | Thailand

Permanent secretary of labour Boonchob Suttamanaswong said the committee, which comprises labour, business and government representatives, has begun reviewing minimum wages and it is expected to reach a decision in August or September.

“We should know if the wages will be increased [soon]. I think the wages are likely to be raised, but by how much I have no idea. I’ll ask the committee to finish its consideration in August and forward it to the decision-makers,” he said. 

However, he said it is unlikely they would climb to a standard 492 baht nationwide as demanded by two labour groups.

Mr Boonchob said the national wage committee takes into consideration points of view from businesses and labour groups before reaching a conclusion.

In an open letter to the government ahead of Labour Day on May 1, the Thai Labour Solidarity Committee (TLSC) and the State Enterprises Workers’ Relations Confederation (SEWRC) had called for the new rate of 492 baht (US$14.3).

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They said the last time minimum daily wages were increased was in January 2020, rising to between 313 baht (US$9.1) and 336 baht (US$9.8) depending on province, according to Bangkok Post.