A new law was passed today to protect the rights of workers here. Many foreign companies objected, saying that the new laws made it too difficult to do business here and that they would face tougher enforcement than local companies.
Today, some industries here look like industries in the US during the robber baron era--Companies have all the power and workers rights to a safe work environment and prompt payment of wages are often ignored. I'm happy to see that the government here is doing something to help build a more sustainable economy instead of allowing companies to squeeze out more from low-wage workers.
Foreign companies do have a legitimate concern that they will be targeted for enforcement while local companies may not need to comply with the new laws. China is trying to support the development of local industry. To truly build a harmonious society (a stated goal), all employers must follow the law and give workers their due.
See the NY Times story
As Unrest Rises, China Broadens Workers’Rights
BEIJING, June 29 — China’s legislature passed a sweeping new labor law on Friday that strengthens protections for workers across the booming economy, a response to increasing signs of restiveness among tens of millions of migrant laborers.
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