The minimum wage rate of $5 applies to both local and foreign workers in Fiji. Minister for Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations Agni Deo Singh clarified this after revealing that his office continued to receive complaints about the minimum wage rates. “We are required to adhere to the minimum wage rate and minimum standards such as accommodation and humane treatment,” Mr Singh explained. “Those employers who are paying above the minimum wage rate are not required to make a way for increase but if they want to give another increase it’s entirely up to them.” However, he is advising employers to make sure that no one is paid below $5. Mr Singh said some workers who earned above the minimum wage still went to various ministry offices to complain, as they were expecting another increase. “We have found out that a large number of employers are paying above the minimum wage rate,” he said. “For example, a heavy machine operator in Fiji, where the minimum wage rate is about $7-$8 an hour, is not paid less than $10 to $12 per hour due to the shortage.” He is urging the media to spread more information about the minimum wage rate, as many employees earning above the minimum wage still seem confused and are seeking another increase. Feedback: shratikan@fijisun.com.fj