Vietnamese Apparel, Footwear Makers Thirsty for Workers

Local apparel and footwear producers are seeking workers to avoid severe labor shortages after the coming lunar New Year holiday and fulfill the yearly export targets.

 

Most workers are from the southern region, local media reported, adding that they [workers] are offered with series of incentives like high salary, bonus and other social welfares.

 

A Japanese-invested fiber company in southern Binh Duong province offers VND900,000 per month for probation plus VND250,000 for lunch and other financial allowances.

 

Businesses also send headhunters to central provinces and ink long-term working contracts, said Thanh Nhan, an apparel director in Tan Phu district, Ho Chi Minh City.

 

In 2008, Vietnam’s apparel and footwear sectors are set to export US$9.5 billion and more than US$4 billion, respectively.

 

Vietnam now has more than 44 million people of working age and the country applies the minimal salary at VND540,000 (US$33.7) a month since January 1, 2008, up from VND450,000 (US$28) in 2007. It will be VND648,000 (US$40.5) by early 2009 and VND777,600 (US$48.6) in 2010. (Labor)