More than 8,000 Cambodian garment workers are protesting over the wage issue. Workers say that a new minimum wage of US $ 140, which was agreed in October, falls far short of the sum that unions had demanded. Several protesters said companies had delivered just 50 per cent of a promised pay rise.
The strike has harmed the country’s multi-billion dollar garment industry and around 45 factories producing clothes, shoes, bicycles, umbrellas, light bulbs and other products. SEZs have been economically affected by the unrest, which has delayed deliveries.
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The industry has seen similar strikes in the past where dozens of garment workers were put on trial. The GMAC has sent a letter to Prime Minister Hun Sen last week urging immediate action to restore order.
Amid a competitive garment manufacturing industry in Asia, the Cambodian Government says it has attempted to meet workers’ demands while keeping the sector competitive. But it has been observed time and again that wage issues are hampering work in the garment sector of Cambodia, making its competitors more firm on the global map.
