Cambodian worker representatives have called for a $14 increase in the minimum wage, while employer representatives have proposed a $1 increase on the current rate of $204 for 2025, according to a press release from the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training following a meeting on the morning of August 29.

This was the second tripartite meeting of the National Council on Minimum Wage (NCMW), focused on discussing the minimum wage for the garment, textile, footwear and travel goods sectors for next year. However, the wage increase will continue to be negotiated in the upcoming meeting scheduled for September 6 and in subsequent discussions, according to the press release.

Labour minister Heng Sour stated after the meeting that both parties presented their calculations and justifications for the proposed figures.

"This is the initial stance we are all aware of. During the upcoming meetings, these positions may be adjusted and discussed further, with some parties possibly increasing and others decreasing their proposals,” he said.

He explained that there are seven key criteria to consider in making a decision, some of which remain consistent, while others have shown positive developments this year.

"What we know today is that, whether by a little or a lot, both parties agree that there will be a wage increase for 2025," Sour said.

He emphasised that the government, as one of the parties in the negotiation, will make every effort to facilitate a consensus between the two sides. He said in the event that the parties cannot reach a mutual agreement, a vote will take place during the final meeting on September 26.

Nevertheless, Sour noted that this year’s wage negotiations have been more mature than in previous years, with worker representatives showing greater unity by presenting a single figure, unlike last year when even the figures proposed by worker representatives differed.