HCM CITY — Nearly one million workers of more than 12,600 businesses with trade trade unions in HCM City have returned to work following the nine-day Lunar New Year (Tết) holiday, reaching 85.33 per cent of their total workforce, according to the municipal Labour Federation.

Among the firms, more than 150 companies located in the city's export processing zones, industrial parks, and high-tech zones have welcomed back over 45,700 workers.

Notably, Pou Yuen Vietnam Co Ltd, the largest employer in HCM City, reported that over 86.45 per cent of its 38,400 employees have returned to work, kicking off the new year with a high spirit. The company organised Tết celebrations and handed out traditional lucky money to workers who reported to work on time. Meanwhile, trade unions have arranged cultural activities and games with lucky draw prizes to boost morale.

The remaining businesses are set to resume operations between February 5 and 7, while some employees are still on annual leave or traveling. In the public sector, nearly 100 per cent of government officials, civil servants, and public employees have returned to work on the first working day of the year.

Phạm Chí Tâm, Vice President of the HCM City Labour Federation, stated that the return of workers in the private sector has been stable and in line with production schedules. He highlighted workers’ appreciation for the city’s trade unions, which ensured timely and thoughtful Tết support.

Tâm urged trade unions at all levels to closely monitor labour relations, business operations, and compliance with labour laws, ensuring that workers receive full wages for January 2025 and any remaining Tết bonuses. This is especially important for companies with unstable labour relations or past disputes, he said.

He also asked trade unions to report on worker attendance from February 4 to 12, while collaborating with authorities to help businesses fill labour shortages due to increased post-Tết production demands and connect job seekers with employers in need of workers. — VNS