Have your say: National Minimum Wage review under way

The National Minimum Wage (NMW) Commission is inviting interested parties to submit written proposals for potential adjustments to the NMW for 2026. According to the Department of Employment and Labour, NMW Chairperson Imraan Valodia is urging all stakeholders to participate in the process.

The NMW is currently set at R28.79 per ordinary hour worked, following a 4.2% increase from the previous year. This rate was announced in February 2025 by Minister of Employment and Labour, Nomakhosazana Meth.

The Commission is responsible for annually reviewing and recommending adjustments to the national minimum wage. It also investigates and reports on the impact of the NMW on the economy, collective bargaining, and income differentials.

Interested parties can submit their comments to the Directorate: Employment Standards, Department of Employment and Labour, Private Bag X117, Pretoria, 0001, or via email to nmwreview@labour.gov.za by September 18.

Additionally, the Commission is inviting parties to complete a survey questionnaire, accessible on the Department's website and social media pages.

The Commission will provide its annual report and recommendations on a possible adjustment to the National Minimum Wage to the Minister of Employment and Labour later this year.