TOKYO – Japanese companies have recorded the most significant pay hikes in thirty years during this year’s negotiations with workers, according to a report by Rengo, the country’s largest trade union group. This development is expected to play a crucial role in revitalizing consumer demand, which has been lackluster in recent times.
The survey conducted by Rengo reveals that the substantial pay increases initially reported by unions at major corporations in March are now extending to workers in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and those with unions consisting of 300 or fewer members.
Broadening Wage Growth Across Industries
The final survey, encompassing 5,272 unions affiliated with Rengo, highlights an average pay hike of 3.58%, equivalent to 10,560 yen ($73.04) per month. This marks the most substantial increase since the 3.9% rise observed in 1993. Notably, SMEs have also contributed to the wage growth trend, raising wages by 3.23% – the fastest pace recorded in three decades.
Economists regard wage growth as a critical factor closely monitored by the Bank of Japan (BOJ), particularly as the central bank contemplates the potential unwinding of its ultra-loose monetary stimulus.
BOJ Governor Kazuo Ueda has emphasized the importance of maintaining an accommodative policy until wages rise sufficiently to sustainably meet the 2% inflation target.
Implications for Inflation and Monetary Policy
The recent surge in wages is attributed to rising prices and a persistent labor shortage. Hisashi Yamada, an economist and professor at Hosei University, anticipates further wage increases in the coming year. He asserts, “What’s important from now on is to bring real wages to positive territory,” emphasizing the need for wages to outpace inflation.
The upward trajectory of wages is anticipated to stabilize inflation at around 2% by next year, placing sustained pressure on the central bank to consider adjusting its yield curve control policy.
Support for Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s Agenda
These significant pay hikes offer political support for Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, who has prioritized wage growth as a key component of his policy agenda. The combination of a weak yen and higher import prices has contributed to increased living costs, making wage growth crucial to maintaining living standards.
Japanese wages have remained largely stagnant since the burst of the asset bubble in the 1990s and currently lag behind the average wages of OECD member countries.
Outlook on Summer Bonus Payments
As the summer approaches, big firms are also anticipated to provide higher bonus payments, with an expected increase of 3.9%, marking the second consecutive year of growth. However, the distribution of these gains is likely to be uneven, according to a survey conducted by Keidanren, Japan’s largest business lobby.
In conclusion, Japan’s companies are witnessing significant wage growth, offering a ray of hope for the country’s economy. The boost in wages is expected to bolster consumer demand, stabilize inflation, and contribute to Prime Minister Kishida’s agenda of addressing living costs and promoting economic growth.
© Reuters
