Hong Kong authorities announced Monday a 2.2% hike in the minimum wage for foreign domestic helpers, raising it to $5,100 per month amid efforts to balance economic pressures and worker needs.
The increase, from the current $4,990, takes effect for all contracts signed starting Tuesday, the government said in a statement. It marks the latest adjustment in a system that employs hundreds of thousands of mostly Filipino and Indonesian women to handle childcare, elder care and household chores in the densely populated city.
A government spokesman said the decision followed a comprehensive review of factors including Hong Kong’s economic performance, labor market conditions, employer affordability and the basic living requirements of helpers. “Taking into account all the relevant factors in a holistic manner, the Government has decided to increase the MAW to $5,100 per month,” the spokesman said.
The food allowance, an option for employers who opt not to provide free meals, will remain unchanged at no less than $1,236 per month. Officials noted that most employers already supply food directly.
Contracts signed at the old wage rate before Tuesday will still be processed by immigration authorities if submitted by Oct. 27, giving employers a grace period to finalize paperwork.
The wage review comes as Hong Kong grapples with post-pandemic recovery and inflation, with foreign domestic helpers forming a critical part of the workforce in a city where dual-income families are common. Advocacy groups have long pushed for higher pay and better protections for these workers, who often live with their employers under strict visa rules.
