The All-China Federation of Trade Unions says more than 80 percent of multinational companies have set up trade unions in China. The federation adds it will continue to help improve the efficiency of these trade unions in order to better protect workers' rights. Dan Dan has the details.

Reporter:
A total of 375 companies from the Fortune 500 list have set up headquarters in China since the country launched its reform and opening up policy 30 years ago.

In 2006, the world's leading retailer, Wal-Mart, first set up its trade union in China. The move came after the efforts made by the All-China Federation of Trade Unions in pushing multinational giants to set up trade unions in China.

Guo Wencai, the Federation's Department Director of Grassroots Organization, says the organization's efforts are well paid off.

"A total of 313 multinational companies' headquarters have set up trade unions, accounting for 83 percent of those based in China."

Since the Labor Contract Law took effect at the beginning of this year, it is believed that trade unions have played a growing role in protecting employees' rights.

Dong Yuguo, spokesperson of Wal-Mart China, says his company is trying to improve its trade union in China.

"Wal-Mart's attitude towards the trade union has always been clear. Wal-Mart China respects China's laws and our Chinese employees' demand. We are communicating with the All-China Federation of Trade Unions and other regional trade unions to improve the efficiency of our trade union so as to create a win-win situation."

Still, some multinational companies haven't set up trade unions in China. Guo Wencai says the All-China Federation of Trade Unions will continue to push these companies to do so.

"Some multinational companies have trade unions in their own countries. But they have taken various measures to delay or interfere the establishment of trade unions in China. We don't allow this kind of action. "

Guo Wencai adds that the ongoing global financial crisis has brought some challenges to trade unions, but his organization will visit enterprises and employees to help them overcome the challenges.

Dan Dan CRI News.