The daily minimum wage in Thailand is set to rise to 400 baht next year, announced Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. The increase, initially planned for October, will be discussed and likely approved by the national wage committee in December. “This will be a New Year present,” Mr. Phiphat said on Friday.
The wage adjustment — moving up from the current range of 330 to 370 baht, depending on the province — was a core campaign pledge of the Pheu Thai Party, which also aims to raise it further to 600 baht by 2027. The increase will initially apply to businesses with more than 200 employees.
Business groups have voiced concerns, stating that a flat nationwide rate may not account for provincial economic differences. According to Mr. Phiphat, the wage hike will add an average of 73 baht in daily costs per employee. He acknowledged the significant impact on businesses but said adjustments for smaller employers would follow, guided by provincial wage committee reports.
The government initially aimed for an October 1 implementation, but delays occurred as the wage committee struggled with attendance, particularly from business representatives.