Vientiane: The Lao Federation of Trade Unions in cooperation with Oxfam in Laos held a consultative meeting on Feb 23 to review cost-of-living data and discuss proposals for adjusting the minimum wage for enterprise workers.

According to Lao News Agency, the meeting took place at the New Rose Hotel in Vientiane and was chaired by Vilay Vongkhaseum, Vice President of the LFTU Executive Committee. It was attended by representatives from relevant ministries, trade unions, and partner organizations.

Participants in the meeting reviewed current wage conditions, analyzed market price surveys from various provinces, and discussed proposed minimum wage figures for the enterprise sector. These discussions are expected to contribute to recommendations for consideration by the National Labour Committee.

Officials highlighted that adjustments to the minimum wage are based on several key factors, including the rising cost of living, the balance between workers' income and expenditure, wage trends in neighboring countries, and broader economic conditions.

The consultation aimed to promote a unified methodology for wage calculation, improve workers' living standards, and ensure balanced benefits for employees, employers, and national socio-economic development.