We would like to remind you of important updates regarding the Statutory Minimum Wage (SMW) in Hong Kong. The SMW has been effective since 1 May 2011. The current rate is $40 per hour, which has been in place since 1 May 2023.

With effect from 1 May 2025, the minimum wage will be increased to $42.1 per hour.

In line with this new rate, the monthly monetary cap relating to the requirement for employers to record the total number of hours worked by employees will also be adjusted. From 1 May 2025 onwards, this cap will be set at $17,200 per month. This means if an employee’s monthly wages reach or exceed this cap, employers are not required to record the total hours worked for that wage period. For further details about record-keeping requirements, please refer to the Labour Department’s website: For details, please click here.

In addition, the Chief Executive in Council has endorsed the Minimum Wage Commission’s recommendations to enhance the review mechanism for the SMW. Under the new arrangement, the minimum wage will be reviewed annually using a designated formula. This new review mechanism will itself be reviewed five to ten years after its implementation. The first SMW rate calculated under this mechanism is expected to take effect on 1 May 2026.

To support compliance and better understanding, the Labour Department has published industry-specific guidelines for the hotel and tourism sectors. We encourage all members to review these resources and ensure that your human resources practices are updated accordingly.

Please circulate this information within your organisation and ensure all relevant staff are aware of the upcoming changes. Should you have any questions, you may refer to the above guidelines or contact the Labour Department directly.