Pandemic impacts survey finds 62 percent losing jobs

Among those who reported job losses, 50 percent said they have been unemployed from one to three months and 15 percent for over six months.

The five-day (August 1-5) online survey done in collaboration with the government-run Private Sector Development Committee (Board IV) also found respondents in very difficult circumstances.

Half of the unemployed respondents said they only had enough money to last for another month at most, with many depending on the financial support of family and relatives. Nearly 40 percent said they did not receive any support, from individuals or other entities.

Of the 38 percent that still had jobs, most were working from home full time, while the rest were working part-time or staying in their factories.

Nearly one in five still working had their salary cut by half.

The respondents also reported difficulties arising out of rising expenses as a result of the pandemic.

Forty-one percent said they have had to pay more for equipment for their children to study online, while 28.5 percent said they have to cover costs of living for family members and relatives who living in isolated areas.

Most of the respondents wanted to see more government support in either cash or groceries as quickly as possible.

They also wanted vaccination sped up and permits for those who’ve had two jabs to get back to work normally.

Among other things, they sought a 20 percent reduction in personal income tax as also interest relief on bank loans.

Vietnam has recorded over 469,000 Covid cases in the fourth wave starting in late April.