Minimum Wage Review underway

This was confirmed by Commissioner of Labour, Brown Pwai, from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration.

Speaking to SIBC News, Mr Pwai said analysis will begin once the Honiara survey is completed.

“The Solomon Islands National Statistics Office and the International Labour Organization (ILO) will work with the Labour Division to analyse the data and produce reports that will help determine the next minimum wage rate,” he said.

Mr Pwai noted that the current minimum wage was introduced in August 2019 and was due for review after two years. However, the process was delayed due to various constraints and limitations.

With six years having passed since the last review, expectations are growing amid rising living costs.

“Costs associated with transport, education and nutrition have all increased. The Household Income and Expenditure Survey also indicates increases in these areas,” he said.

“However, we must wait until all the data is available and the analysis is completed.”

Mr Pwai said the declaration of a new minimum wage will depend on the completion of the data analysis and recommendations from the Labour Advisory Board, in accordance with the relevant regulations.

The board will then advise the Minister of Labour on the appropriate minimum wage rate.

He added that the review process will involve tripartite consultations between employers, workers and the government before a final decision is made.

Mr Pwai said the government views the upcoming minimum wage review as a significant milestone.

ENDS//