The general secretary of the Fiji Trade Union Congress, Felix Anthony, is advocating for an increase in the minimum wage from the current $5 per hour in the upcoming 2025-2026 National Budget. Anthony emphasizes that the minimum wage, despite its recent increase, remains inadequate for Fijians coping with a rising cost of living. He argues that many workers are struggling to meet their basic needs and believes that a living wage is essential for improving their quality of life.
Anthony highlighted the link between low wages and health issues in Fiji, particularly non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which he states are exacerbated by the poverty levels many workers face. He points out that when individuals cannot afford proper nutrition or healthcare, it leads to broader health problems affecting society.
The national minimum wage was raised to $5 per hour this year after previous increments, starting from $4.50 in August 2024. Last year, Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad indicated that wage adjustments aim to boost productivity and attendance among lower-paid employees, enabling them to acquire skills that could elevate their earnings.
In discussions reflecting on the labor market, concerns have been raised regarding the adequacy of wage levels in light of inflation and rising living costs. Previous articles have noted that Felix Anthony and the FTUC have been advocating for higher wages to address the needs of workers more effectively, which is increasingly recognized as a pressing issue within the community.
Looking forward, there is hope that ongoing discussions and advocacy efforts will lead to necessary reforms in wage policy, ultimately promoting fair labor practices that enhance the wellbeing of Fijian workers while simultaneously supporting economic growth and stability. Prioritizing this dialogue can pave the way for a supportive environment where the needs of both workers and businesses are balanced appropriately.
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