PHNOM PENH: Minister of Labor and Vocational Training, Heng Sour, led the National Minimum Wage Council in its second round of talks to determine the minimum wage in the textile, garment, footwear and travel products industries for 2024.

The National Minimum Wage Council is composed of representatives from the government, unions and employers. The first round of talks was held under the former administration on August 16. The second talk, under the new administration, was held for four hours on the morning of August 28.

At the meeting, workers’ representatives debated their positions with employers in a professional manner. The debate was mediated by the Royal Government who provided additional information and asked questions of both sides. The figures discussed were not disclosed and talks are expected to resume on September 4.

As of 2023, the minimum wage for workers in the textile, garment, footwear and travel products industries is $200 per month. With additional benefits a worker can expect to earn between $217 and $228 per month.