As record prices continued to rise and wage increases became an issue, a meeting was held between the top leaders of Keidanren and Rengo, and this year's spring labor offensive has virtually started.
The focus is on whether wage increases will spread, including among small and medium-sized enterprises, and how far the rate of wage increases can be extended.
Chairman Tokura of Keidanren and Chairman Yoshino of the Federation met in Tokyo on the morning of the 23rd, and this year's spring struggle has virtually started.
Keidanren Chairman Tokura said, "While paying particular attention to price trends, we are calling on companies to take proactive measures to maintain and strengthen the momentum of wage increases as part of their social responsibility." .
In response, Rengo chairman Yoshino said, "Many people are suffering from the corona crisis and high prices. We should not limit ourselves to discussions that are an extension of what we have done so far. Labor and management should work together to create Japan's future. This should be a turning point for restructuring," he said, agreeing that wage increases will continue as prices continue to rise.
However, as for the rate of wage increase, "Rengo" wants a level of about 5%, which is equivalent to base increase and regular salary increase, while "Keidanren" can understand the level required by "Rengo". "Careful consideration is desired," he said.
In this year's spring labor offensive, the focus will be on whether the movement to raise wages will spread, including among small and medium-sized enterprises, how far the wage rate can be increased, and whether it can be a turning point to sustainably raise wages.
In the spring labor offensive, negotiations will get into full swing next month, with labor unions such as automobile companies submitting demand forms.
Keidanren Chairman Tokura ``Is this a good opportunity to dispel the deflationary mindset?''
After the meeting, Keidanren Chairman Tokura said, "Both Keidanren and RENGO agree that Japan is now at a major turning point. Sustained wage increases and structural wage increases require improvements in productivity to generate capital. In addition to this, it is very important to wipe out the deflationary mindset, and this is the perfect opportunity to do so." .
Economy Revitalization Minister Goto "Expects maximum wage increase"
Minister of State for Economic Revitalization Goto said at a press conference after the cabinet meeting on the 23rd, "It is important to realize continuous wage increases that do not succumb to price increases. Wage increases are decided through individual labor-management negotiations. As the de facto start of the spring labor offensive, the government hopes to raise wages to the maximum possible extent."
On top of that, Minister Goto said, ``In order to make wage increases continuous, we will establish a Japanese-style skill-based wage system in which skills are properly evaluated and reflected in wage increases, and promote smooth labor movement to growth fields. , I would like to promote and support reforms from the standpoint of workers."