Shenzhen, one of China’s leading manufacturing centres, is considering raising its minimum wage by up to 23 per cent.

The plan highlights the growing cost pressures that manufacturers face and sets a benchmark for increases in the South China region. Under proposals by the Shenzhen labour bureau, the minimum wage would rise from Rmb690 ($86) a month to either Rmb800 or Rmb850 for companies inside a special economic zone bordering Hong Kong.