South Africa’s statutory National Minimum Wage (NMW) will increase to R30.23 per ordinary hour worked from 1 March 2026, the Department of Employment and Labour has announced.
The adjustment represents a 5 % increase from the previous rate of R28.79 per hour and aims to help low-paid workers keep pace with rising living costs.
Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth confirmed the change in a statement published on 3 February, saying the R1.44 upward adjustment will benefit workers across the economy, including vulnerable groups such as farm and domestic workers.
Under the National Minimum Wage Act of 2018, employers are legally required to pay employees at least the minimum hourly rate for ordinary hours worked.
Failure to comply can result in enforcement action and fines imposed by labour inspectors and the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).
The new minimum wage applies broadly across sectors, but workers in the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) — a government initiative to provide temporary work opportunities — will receive a lower hourly rate of R16.62, reflecting their special employment status.
Learnership allowances under the Skills Development Act will also be updated, with specific rates published on the Department’s website.
Labour and business reactions were mixed following the announcement. The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) welcomed the above-inflation rise as a step toward protecting workers from the eroding impact of inflation and boosting economic participation.
In contrast, some employer groups cautioned that increased labour costs could strain businesses already managing tight margins and high unemployment.
The wage floor is estimated to affect more than 5 million workers nationwide, including those in agriculture, construction, retail, hospitality, security and cleaning services.
Observers say regular revisions are crucial to ensuring the minimum wage continues to reflect economic conditions and the cost of living for the lowest-paid workers.
Also Read
SASSA Announces February 2026 Grant Payment Dates
