Seven regions across China have raised their minimum wage standards so far this year, with Shanghai's standard leading the nation, according to statistics from local governments.

The regions are Chongqing, Shaanxi, Shandong, Beijing, Tianjin, Shenzhen and Shanghai.

With a minimum monthly payment requirement of 1,820 yuan ($290) and a minimum hourly rate of 17 yuan, Shanghai topped the nation.

Shenzhen followed closely, with a minimum monthly payment requirement of 1,808 yuan and minimum hourly pay of 16.5 yuan.

According to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, in 2013, 27 regions across China raised their minimum wage standards, with an average increase of 17 percent.

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