The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) commends the National Unions of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) on signing an above-inflation wage agreement in the automotive sector. 

NUMSA announced it had signed a three-year wage agreement with employer organisations Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) and the Fuel Retailers Association (FRA) at the Motor Industries Bargaining Council (MIBCO). The agreement covers members working for motor components manufactures, filling stations, car dealerships, vehicle body builders, etc.

As per the agreement component manufacturer workers will receive a pay rise of 6% in Year 1; 5% in Year 2 and 3; overtime time will be 1.5% the normal rate of pay. Forecourt attendants at filling stations will receive 6% in the first year; 5% in the second year; and 4% in the third year. Cashiers and chars on the other hand will receive 6% in Year 1, and 4% in the Year 2 and 3. Workers in car dealerships will receive a 5% hike for each year of the agreement, and so will all the other unspecified workers in sector.

The union also scored a monumental victory by securing private primary healthcare cover for garage workers, who are the least paid in the sector, for the first time ever in this round of negotiations.

COSATU applauds NUMSA for signing this important agreement even as the automotive sector experiences uncertainty wrought on by the US imposed 30% tariff. The Federation particularly commends the union for having secured the primary healthcare benefit for garage workers, demonstrating the role of trade unions in fighting for and securing gains for the most vulnerable workers.

Issued by COSATU

Matthew Parks (COSATU Parliamentary Coordinator)

Mobile: 082 785 0687Email: matthew@cosatu.org.za