The Wages Council, under the Ministry of Employment, has initiated its first consultation with the Chamber of Commerce in Sigatoka, marking the first such meeting since 2012. Minister for Employment Agni Deo Singh emphasized that the consultation aims to inform the business sector about the Wages Council’s role and the processes involved in establishing minimum wages across various sectors.
This initiative follows a recent review of the minimum wage, which resulted in a $1 increase in sectoral minimum wages implemented in two phases of 50 cents each, allowing businesses time to adjust. As of April 1, the minimum wage for unskilled workers is now $5 per hour. Singh indicated that the government is also reviewing the Employment Relations Act (ERA) of 2007 to ensure compliance with International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions, especially regarding collective bargaining rights and freedom of association. This review aims to bring the legislation up to date since it was last enacted in 2006.
In related news, Singh had recently announced additional staff recruitment to improve employer compliance with labor laws. This follows a wage increase that came into effect on August 1, intended to assist low-income earners amidst rising living costs. The minister urged workers to report any violations regarding the minimum wage while praising employers who exceed the mandated wage rate. With the second phase of the minimum wage increase scheduled for implementation on April 1, 2025, there is hope for better living standards for workers and compliance from employers as discussions continue.
Overall, these developments reflect a proactive approach to improving labor laws and ensuring fair compensation for workers in Fiji’s evolving economic landscape.
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