The Trade Union of Shenyang bus drivers signed the first collective wage contract with a representative of local public traffic companies on Thursday in Shenyang, capital of Liaoning province.

The contract, which will benefit about 15,000 bus company workers, set a minimum monthly wage of 1,200 yuan ($188.73)?and linked workers'annual pay increases to the company's profits.

"It's so great that we can have a say in the decision on salaries. The most important thing is that there is an annual growth," Li Ping, a female bus driver, told China Daily.

Statistics from local authorities show the average pay of bus drivers is about 1,100 yuan per month. Their wages have remained relatively stagnant over the past decade.

The Shenyang Federation of Trade Unions, the biggest driving force behind the contract, praised the agreement.

"Under this contract, bus drivers have more bargaining power to earn a better life," said Duan Yang, vice-chairwoman of the Shenyang Federation of Trade Unions.