How much do garment workers make in Vietnam?

Unveiling the Intricacies of Vietnam’s Garment Industry: A Deep Dive into Wages

Vietnam’s bustling garment industry employs millions of skilled workers who toil tirelessly to produce the garments that adorn countless closets worldwide. However, the compensation they receive for their labor varies widely depending on a myriad of factors, such as location and experience.

Nestled amidst the vibrant economic hubs of Vietnam, garment workers earn wages that fluctuate significantly by region. A survey conducted by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry reveals that the annual salary for garment workers in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi averages around VND 66 million. This translates to an hourly wage of approximately VND 32,000.

However, as one ventures into less urbanized areas, the wages paid to garment workers tend to decrease. Workers in provinces such as Long An and Dong Nai, which are known for their garment manufacturing clusters, typically earn an average annual salary of VND 55 million. This amounts to roughly VND 27,000 per hour.

Experience also plays a pivotal role in determining the compensation received by garment workers in Vietnam. Seasoned workers with years of expertise in specific garment-making techniques command higher wages. Senior seamstresses, for instance, can earn up to VND 40,000 per hour.

It is worth noting that the minimum wage for garment workers in Vietnam has been steadily increasing in recent years. In 2023, the minimum wage for workers in the garment and textile industry will be VND 4,680,000 per month, which is equivalent to approximately VND 23,000 per hour.

Despite these improvements, the wages paid to garment workers in Vietnam remain relatively low compared to other sectors of the economy. This has led to ongoing debates about the need for further wage increases and improvements in working conditions for these essential workers who contribute significantly to Vietnam’s economic growth.