Shanghai, Guangdong, and Zhejiang have raised their minimum wage to a level above RMB 1,000, amid a new wave of minimum wages rise among 11 cities and regions.

This is the first time that China sees more than one city or region with a 1,000-plus minimum wage at one time after adjustment, following Shenzhen in Guangdong.

Shanghai has the highest minimum wage across the country - RMB 1120.

Eleven provinces, autonomous regions and municipality cities have raised their minimum wage more than 10%. Hubei, Ningxia, Fujian, Guangdong, and Shandong have increased their rate more than 20%.

Jiangsu, Shandong and three other provinces' minimum wage are higher than RMB 900, coming near to the "Thousand Club".

Beijing and other provinces are also planning a hike.

The minimum wage of Beijing is RMB 800. It is believed Beijing will witness an increase rate of more than 10% this year.

Difficulties in employee recruitment in southern and coastal provinces led to the raise as well as high consumption levels in Shanghai and Guangdong.

(chinadaily.com.cn May 18, 2010)