Trade unions call for halt of labor import scheme

Local construction workers are in short supply even if the industry is in a slump

Industries that have been clamouring for permission to import staff from overseas are struggling, according to a survey by the Hong Kong Federation of  Trade Unions.

In the study published yesterday, Sunday, businesses that have seen the highest influx of foreign workers like in retail, construction and food sectors, are shown to have the highest unemployment rates, and are fighting to keep afloat.

Nearly 30% of the respondents reported a drop in income, while almost 50% expressed uncertainty about future job prospects.

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Understandably, 60% of them disapprove of the foreign labour import scheme, with 84% believing it reduces job opportunities for local workers and 72% saying it brings down wages.

The construction sector, where salaries have jumped considerably because of staff shortages, has ironically been hit by a massive slowdown.

According to Chau Sze-kit, chairman of the Hong Kong Construction Industry Employees General Union, the number of private construction projects, which account for nearly half of the industry’s revenue, has plummeted by almost 90% since last year. 

Thus, while construction workers from the mainland had been allowed to enter the industry, many architects and workers have reportedly been placed on unpaid leave.

The food and beverage sector has also suffered a slump because of the recent trend of Hong Kong people going across the border to shop and dine because of considerably lower prices.

According to Yu Kim-hung, vice chairman of the Eating Establishment Employees General Union, the long hours, heavy workload and physically demanding nature of the industry, has discouraged new entrants, while prompting young chefs to seek opportunities abroad.

The unions have urged the government to halt the importation of foreign workers and introduce measures to attract more local people to the struggling industries by reviewing working hours, wages and job security.

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