Just like in Russia - Latvian entrepreneurs are pleased that workers can be paid less 0 36

"Currently, the 100% overtime pay established in the Labor Law looks good in theory; however, in practice, it has become an obstacle to fair wages, more flexible work organization, and an increase in the overall wage fund. In the private sector, wages have more than doubled over the past ten years, but to increase wages in the public sector, a more competitive business environment must be created, which, in turn, will contribute to the growth of tax revenues. The commission's decision is a positive step for economic development and increasing its competitiveness," believes the Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LTPP).

"Currently, Latvia is the only country in the European Union where a minimum overtime pay of 100% is established. In neighboring countries—Lithuania and Estonia—it is 50%, and in France, for example, it is only 10%. The minimum overtime pay of 100% is an outdated practice inherited from the Soviet era, which in the current labor market conditions has only been preserved in Russia and Belarus. Support for regulatory changes from the parliamentary commission opens up the possibility for Latvia to move towards a more balanced labor market regulation characteristic of developed European economies while simultaneously abandoning norms and approaches typical of post-Soviet states," adds the organization.