Enforcement and Sanctions for Non-Compliance with Minimum Wage Rules in Rotterdam

The Inspectie SZW enforces strictly on minimum wage in Rotterdam, including end-of-year payments in the port and logistics sector. Violations result in fines from €2,000 to €12,000 per employee, doubled in case of recidivism (Impediments Act). Priority lies with vulnerable Rotterdam sectors such as port work, cleaning, and transport. In 2023, the Inspectorate imposed over 800 fines in South Holland, with €4 million in sanctions, largely in the Maasstad. Companies in Rotterdam Port often first receive a warning, followed by stop-and-check at control posts. Employees report anonymously via the national hotline or locally with trade unions. The Public Prosecutor's Office in The Hague pursues criminal prosecution in cases of intent in Rotterdam matters. Administrative procedures take an average of 6 months; appeal to the CBb. Examples: a Rotterdam shipping company paid €450,000 after underpayment of dockworkers; a cleaning company in the port €300,000. Advice: conduct internal audits for Rotterdam employers and train payroll administrators on the Maritime Collective Labour Agreement. Digitalisation via eHerkenning simplifies reporting with the Port of Rotterdam Authority. For international port workers, rules from the Act to Combat Bogus Self-Employment apply. UWV Rotterdam recovers arrears of wages within 5 years. Trends: AI tools for wage checks by SZW in logistics hotspots. Entrepreneurs: invest in compliance to prevent reputational damage in the port. Legal assistance via FNV Port or VNO-NCW Rotterdam recommended. (218 words)