Vietnam to allow independent trade unions, raise retirement age

The adjustment of the retirement ages is aimed at avoiding an imminent labour shortage from 2040 as Vietnam's population continues to age rapidly.
The adjustment of the retirement ages is aimed at avoiding an imminent labour shortage from 2040 as Vietnam’s population continues to age rapidly.PHOTO: AFP

 Labour issues had often topped the negotiation agendas for these free trade deals.

The EU signed the landmark free trade deal with Vietnam in June. The agreement, which includes a chapter on sustainable development, such as implementing international standards on labour rights and the Paris climate accord, still needs the approval of the European Parliament.

The law also improves collective bargaining rights, strengthens protections against discrimination at work, and enhances protections for younger workers.

“These new provisions demonstrate a significant commitment to advancing the protection of labour rights,” the US embassy statement said.

Under the new legislation, the retirement age of men will be gradually raised by two years to 62 by 2028, while that of women by five years to 60 by 2035, according to a copy of the new law.

The adjustment of the retirement ages, according to the Labour Ministry, is aimed at avoiding an imminent labour shortage from 2040 as Vietnam’s population continues to age rapidly.

At present, companies shifting manufacturing to Vietnam amid a trade war between Washington and Beijing are engaging in a fierce battle for skilled labour, aggravating an existing shortage and prompting calls for education reforms to address the problem.