Hong Kong lifts domestic workers' minimum wage by 2.35% amid calls for a living wage

Hong Kong’s labour department disclosed that the minimum wage for the city’s more than 380,000 foreign domestic helpers will rise by 2.35%, moving from HK$5,100 to HK$5,220 per month, with the change applying to contracts signed on or after Oct 3. The statutory food allowance, which employers must provide when they do not supply meals, will stay at a floor of HK$1,236 monthly. The government said the modest increase was based on consultations with both employers and workers and on more favourable socio-economic factors than those considered in the previous review.

Advocacy groups, led by the Asian Migrants Coordinating Body, had pressed for a 21% increase to HK$6,172 and for the food allowance to be more than doubled to HK$3,123, arguing that current levels are insufficient amid rapid inflation. AMCB spokesperson Sringatin described the new wage of HK$5,220 as “far from” a living wage and warned that unchanged food subsidies will increase expenses for workers lacking meals at their employers’ homes.

The announcement follows the usual September review cycle, though this year’s release was delayed. Officials maintain the adjustment balances employer affordability with basic living needs for domestic workers.