Samsung Biologics seeks resolution to 100-day labor dispute

Samsung Biologics management and its labor union have agreed to undergo a post-mediation process through the Incheon Regional Labor Relations Commission to resolve a dispute that has lasted over 100 days. Both parties seek an exit strategy to avoid further damage to production and business operations.

The primary points of contention involve wage increases and the scope of management rights. The union has requested a 14.3% increase in base pay and significant performance bonuses. Additionally, the union is seeking prior notification and agreement on major corporate decisions, such as mergers and acquisitions, factory sales, and personnel management. The company maintains that these matters fall under exclusive management rights.

This resolution attempt comes as Samsung Biologics faces financial pressure from production losses caused by previous strikes, estimated at approximately 150 billion won. Despite these challenges, the company is pursuing global expansion, including opening a sales office in Amsterdam and acquiring the Swiss Peptides Group to enter the peptide CDMO market.