Solving the Manpower Shortage in the Hong Kong Laundry Industry
The Hong Kong laundry industry is facing a severe manpower shortage issue, but now there is a solution. According to recent reports, the industry can apply for the Supplementary Labour Scheme, which allows employers to import foreign workers for specific non-technical or low-skilled positions within a two-year period to alleviate the manpower shortage.
Representatives of the laundry industry push for lifting restrictions on importing foreign workers
Previously, representatives of the laundry industry have been advocating for the importation of foreign workers but faced limitations due to relevant regulations. Now, with the initiation of the Supplementary Labour Scheme, the laundry industry finally qualifies to apply for foreign workers, marking a significant progress for the sector.
Assisting the laundry industry and related sectors
Laundering Services Industry Association Chairman, Lin Shiu-wai, stated that this scheme will benefit industries related to laundry services such as hotels, airlines, hospital services, beauty, fitness, and catering. He mentioned that over 96% of enterprises are willing to hire foreign workers. In the past, some industries may have attempted to apply for foreign workers through other channels, but the process was often time-consuming. The new scheme is expected to expedite the approval process, providing the industry with faster solutions.
Benefitting the hotel industry through the Supplementary Labour Scheme
Similarly, the Hotel Owners Association has also submitted applications to the authorities, seeking to import 2,000 foreign workers to address the manpower shortage in positions such as housekeeping, waitstaff, and front desk receptionists. It is anticipated that the hotel industry will continue to submit applications to meet market demands.
A midterm solution
However, Stephen Chu Ying-wai, Executive Director of the Hotel Owners Association, pointed out that the manpower shortage issue in the hotel industry is extremely severe. At times, hotels are unable to fully open all rooms to accommodate guests, which has an impact on business operations. Chu stated that importing foreign workers is only a midterm solution, and they hope the government can provide other long-term viable options to address the industry's long-standing manpower shortage issue.
Seeking long-term solutions
According to the regulations of the Supplementary Labour Scheme, employers must undergo a four-week local recruitment process before submitting an application, and the salary for foreign workers must not be lower than the median level for the same position among local workers.
