Private sector: a rise of 17% is expected for the minimum wage

The Conference of Workers in Madagascar (CTM) is satisfied. After the rise of the minimum wage (SMIG) in the public sector, that of the private sector is finally known, following a meeting between the association of company managers and the employees’ unions, on February 24, 2011. It was thus decided that the guaranteed minimum wage (SMIG) for the private sector will rise by 17%. This amount will decrease as long as the category increases. The general coordinator of CTM, José Randrianasolo, announced the news, following the meeting of the two entities. The latter declared that the rise of 17% “is not a fixed rate. The rise will depend on the professional category. Each category has its own share of increase which will correspond to the minimum rate of inflation”.

CTM declared to be satisfied by the rise of 17%, even if their initial request does not correspond exactly to this rate. Indeed, for simple workers, CTM requested a rise of 23% for the minimum wage and a rise of 13% for middle managers.  However, CTM insisted they will not accept a rise below 10%, which the employers respected. As for the Companies Union of Madagascar (SIM), its president, Hery Ranaivosoa, says that “every aspect will be studied for its implementation”.