Sompop Manarungsan, the Panyapiwat president, expects more good than bad from the increase, as it will help stimulate domestic consumption. This will also make the country less reliant on exports since the US and Europe are still experiencing economic problems.

"The wage increase will go smoothly so long as the government has in-depth data showing the effects," said Dr Sompop.

He suggested the government focus on three economic measures - enhance the service sector, drive agricultural growth with a clear direction, and build better relations with neighbouring countries.

Thailand should have both plantation areas and production bases in these nations.

Yongyuth Cha- Chalamwong, the research director for human resources and social development with the TDRI, agreed the wage structure should be revised. Thailand's competitiveness may decline in the short term but then improve in the medium term after the private sector adjusts to it, he said.

"It's time to enhance worker quality to support labor market demand. We should enhance their core skills," said Dr. Yongyuth.

He said higher wages would improve workers' living conditions, help to reduce the wealth gap in society and reflect labor productivity.

Acknowledging that minimum wage increases always lift product prices, Dr. Yongyuth said the impact would be limited this time as long as measures are implemented to improve productivity and address price hikes.

Other suggestions included a government fund to provide financial support to small and medium enterprises.

Korsak Chairasmisak, the chief executive of CP All Plc, the operator of the world's third largest 7-Eleven convenience store chain, said his company was ready to follow the new wage policy but suggested a gradual hike over a one-off rise.

"This will affect us, but it's a fact that we must live with. We believe we can maintain our profits thanks to efficient management," he said.

CP All is now streamlining its operations, with the aim of shortening all work systems.