Hong Kong Minimum Wage Increases to HKD 43.10 per Hour on May 1, 2026

Hong Kong's Statutory Minimum Wage (SMW) will increase from HKD 42.10 to HKD 43.10 per hour, effective May 1, 2026. The HKD 1.00 increase represents a 2.4% rise and follows the Chief Executive in Council's acceptance of the Minimum Wage Commission's recommendation under the enhanced annual review mechanism.

Who is affected

All employers in Hong Kong who employ workers under employment contracts, apprenticeships, or work experience programs are required to comply with the SMW. The increase applies to all employees covered by the Minimum Wage Ordinance, regardless of industry, company size, or employment arrangement. Certain exemptions apply to live-in domestic workers and student interns under specific government programs.

What's changing

The hourly minimum wage rate will increase by HKD 1.00:

Employers must pay employees at least HKD 43.10 for each hour worked starting May 1, 2026. The SMW applies to wages for work done, and does not include accommodation, meals, or other benefits in kind. Employers who fail to comply face criminal liability, including fines up to HKD 350,000 and imprisonment for up to three years.

What NEO partners and clients should do

• Update payroll systems by April 30, 2026 to reflect the new HKD 43.10 hourly rate for all employees currently paid at or near the minimum wage.
• Review employment contracts and wage structures to ensure compliance with the new rate, particularly for part-time, hourly, and casual workers.
• Communicate the change to affected employees before May 1, 2026, and ensure May payroll reflects the updated rate for all hours worked from May 1 onward.
• Verify that any piece-rate or commission-based compensation arrangements meet or exceed the new hourly minimum when calculated on a per-hour basis.

Sources

• https://www.labour.gov.hk/eng/news/mwo.htm