The rising number of working expatriates in Shanghai has also caused the number of labor disputes there to increase.

According to the Shanghai Labor Dispute Arbitration Commission, 64 disputes recorded last year, up from 48 (33 percent) in 2004.

Half of the disputes were related to delayed payment of salary and the cancellation of certain benefits without prior consultation.

Many expatriates lose the opportunity to defend their rights because they don't know about the relevant laws and regulations in China.

According to the Labor Law, a labor dispute first must go to a local labor arbitration commission within 60 days of the alleged incident.

If, however, the matter is urgent (such as withheld pay) and "full evidence" can be provided, a lawsuit must be filed within 15 days.

In ordinary situations, however, the court will accept the case only if the commission has first ruled on it.

(China Daily October 25, 2006)