The surge in development that has accompanied Burma's transition to a form of democracy after decades of military rule has led to a swift shortage of skilled labour. The shortage is particularly acute among tradespeople in the construction industry and has led to sharp increases in the wages being offered. Last year skilled construction workers earned the equivalent of between $6.65 and $8.85 a day. This year employers are having to pay $11 a day and more for qualified tradespeople. Pay for casual workers has risen by about 50% and men now earn just under $6 a day, while women get a bit over $3.
