Vietnam’s 2016 Truck Driver Salary Increase: Reality vs. Promise

“When will our salaries ever increase?” This half-joking, half-serious question is a constant refrain among us truck drivers. In 2016, news of a salary increase policy sparked joy and hope for a better life. But life on the road is unpredictable, and information, like exhaust fumes, often dissipates quickly. What was the truth behind the 2016 salary increase? Was it a downpour of relief or just a sprinkle that barely made a difference?

The 2016 Salary Increase Policy: A Brief Overview

In 2016, the Vietnamese government issued Decree No. 77/2015/ND-CP on wages, effective from January 1, 2016. Nguyen Van A, an economist (name changed for privacy), stated: “This policy was expected to improve the lives of workers, including truck drivers.”

Key Features of the Policy:

• Base Salary Increase: The base salary was adjusted from 1,150,000 VND/month to 1,210,000 VND/month.
• Salary Adjustments Based on Pay Scales: Salaries were adjusted based on job position and professional qualifications.
• Incentives for Businesses: Some businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), received tax benefits for increasing employee wages.

The Sweet and Sour Reality for Truck Drivers

While it sounded promising, the reality was much more complex. How did the 2016 salary increase policy actually affect truck drivers’ income?

• Binh, a box truck driver in Ha Dong, shared: “The base salary increased, but my take-home pay decreased!” His company reduced other allowances to offset the base salary increase.
• Tung, a van driver operating between Hanoi and Bac Ninh, had a different experience: “Thanks to this policy, my salary increased slightly, making life a little easier.”

Clearly, the policy was broad, and its implementation depended on various factors, including the type of business and labor agreements.

Earning a Living on the Road: More Than Just a Salary

We, the truck drivers, the “kings of the road,” are no strangers to hardship. Our income doesn’t solely rely on salary but also comes from other sources:

• Tips from Customers: Generous customers and smooth deliveries can provide extra income.
• Private Hauling: Outside of company hours, many drivers take on private hauling jobs to supplement their income.

Honking the Horn for Change

The 2016 salary increase policy was a breath of fresh air for workers. However, for it to be truly effective, synchronized efforts are needed from all parties, from government policies to companies’ genuine care for their employees.

Want to learn more about other support policies? Check out:

• Social Policy Bank Loan Procedures
• Support Policies for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in 2016

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