The Direct Effects of Minimum Wage Regulation in Two Low-paying Sectors

Bibliographic Data

ID12765280
AuthorsMin Li (0000-0002-1163-8961, South China University of Technology, corresponding author)
Year2008
Volume7
Issue2
Pages261-283
Publication date2008-09-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueThe Journal of Comparative Asian Development (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1533-9114 • E-ISSN: 2150-5403
PublisherRoutledge (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/15339114.2008.9678464
OpenAlexW1975506053
LanguageEN
References cited20

This paper presents a study examining the direct effects of the Minimum Wage Regulation in two low-paying sectors in Southern China. Drawing on data from 19 small firms and 115 employees in clothing and construction sectors, the paper explores the reasons for the limited direct effects of the minimum wage on employment and pay in low-paying sectors. It argues that market conditions and social institutions have more direct impact on employment and wages than minimum wage regulation. The main purpose of this research is to examine the change of employment relations in terms of employment, pay changes and pay regulations. The research method of this study combines interviews with employers, managers and employees. It is thus possible to construct a detailed picture of the minimum wage regulation on employment and pay in the two low-paying sectors. It shows minimum wage regulation losing its legal institutional force on employment and pay in low-paying sectors, and it highlights how social institutions determine employment and pay. This enables the development of minimum wage regulation in further ongoing research

Business · China · Clothing · Construct (python library · Economics · Labour economics · Low wage · Minimum wage · Political science · Wage · Employment and Welfare Studies · Labor Movements and Unions · Migration, Ethnicity, and Economy