GDP Growth Elicits 5.5% Pay Rise Request from Hong Kong Labour Union
Urgent Call for Salary Adjustment
A major Hong Kong labour group, spearheaded by Jenny Tam Kam-lin, has demanded a salary increase of at least 5.5% for 2025. Following a recent survey, it was revealed that over 65% of workers have cut back on daily expenses to manage the escalating cost of living.
Survey Insights Reveal Worker Struggles
The Federation of Hong Kong and Kowloon Labour Unions conducted an annual pay trend survey, uncovering that nearly half of the respondents needed to work overtime or pick up extra part-time jobs to secure additional income. Despite an average pay rise of only 4.5%, 63% of those surveyed felt that this was insufficient for coping with their expenses.
- 1,123 workers over 18 surveyed in August.
- A significant number of respondents earned between HK$20,001 and HK$25,000.
- 66.5% reported lowering expenses due to inadequate salary adjustments.
Cost of Living Pressures
In addition to stagnant wages, Tam highlighted the growing costs in housing, transport, and groceries. Workers, especially those with families, are facing rising expenses linked to educational supplies.
- The SMEs are experiencing severe challenges and are near collapse.
- Feedback indicates a pessimistic business outlook.
- The GDP growth figures were adjusted to show a mere 1.8% year-on-year increase.
Federation chairman Lam Chun-sing reinforced that the 5.5% wage increase is a holistic recommendation, reflecting the challenges of low-income families as well as current economic data.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.