Employers in Fiji are encouraged to stop blaming the national minimum wage for their business challenges, according to Felix Anthony, the national secretary of the Fiji Trade Union Congress. His statements come as the garment industry expresses apprehensions regarding the minimum wage set to take effect on April 1.
Anthony argues that claims of job losses due to the minimum wage increase should not be taken seriously. He emphasized that Fiji has made a commitment to ensuring decent work, which inherently includes fair wages and respect for workers’ dignity. “Any business that cannot pay decent wages should not exist,” he stated, asserting that such excuses are merely attempts to exploit the workforce.
The garment sector has a history of voicing concerns about wage reviews, which Anthony suggests is not a new phenomenon. He questions how the industry can consistently report poor performance while the owners seem to benefit personally. Anthony also pointed out that the minimum wage set by the government remains below the poverty line, an issue he believes the nation should address with urgency.
This development aligns with earlier discussions regarding the rising operational and labor costs facing the garment industry. As Anthony and other industry leaders, like Inbamalar Wanarajan from the Textile Clothing and Footwear Council, raise alarms about how the wage hike could hurt profitability, there is a recognition of the need for balanced discussions that prioritize both the welfare of workers and the sustainability of businesses.
While challenges persist, there remains hope that constructive engagement between the government and industry stakeholders can yield solutions that bolster the garment sector while improving living standards for workers. The increasing focus on fair wages and decent work conditions not only aligns with global labor standards but also underscores the opportunity for local businesses to innovate and adapt, ultimately fostering a robust economic environment in Fiji.
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