I wonder if ignoring the prevailing wage of the labor market is the correct approach. Since sherpa wages are one of the principal expenses, this will automatica

I wonder if ignoring the prevailing wage of the labor market is the correct approach. Since sherpa wages are one of the principal expenses, this will automatically lead to higher costs for the climbers, therefore less demand and less jobs. In an environment where significantly higher wages are paid to select few, you will have corruption in recruiting (a significant part of the wage will go to middlemen, not to the workers) and even stronger abuse by the team leaders since there is more to lose if you are fired. Also, if western companies decide to provide these "ethical wages", it opens up a large market for Chinese or Nepalese companies who might treat workers even worse. It goes without saying that no expense should be spared in protecting lives, sherpa should not be exposed to more risks than absolutely necessary and should be covered by comprehensive insurance. If need be, this should be imposed by the regulatory power of the Nepalese state.