Hong Kong raises the monthly minimum wage for foreign domestic helpers by 2.35%, from HK$5,100 to HK$5,220, effective for employment contracts signed on or after Saturday (Oct. 3). The government announces the change on Friday and sets the updated amount at about US$665 per month.
The government also keeps the food allowance unchanged, saying socioeconomic factors are “more favourable.” One outlet reports the government’s explanation for not altering the allowance while applying the wage increase broadly to eligible contracts. Another outlet also notes the policy affects Hong Kong’s foreign domestic workers, numbering more than 380,000.
While the outlets agree on the wage figure, timing, and unchanged food allowance, at least one includes a critical perspective from a labour advocate, who says the new minimum wage remains far from a living wage. Another outlet frames the announcement as a routine adjustment in line with the government’s calculation, without highlighting the same criticism.
