The National Minimum Wage Commission has opened the door for public consultation on proposed adjustments to South Africa’s minimum wage for 2026, with workers likely to see increases above the current inflation rate.
The commission’s annual call for stakeholder submissions will inform recommendations to Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth later this year, potentially affecting millions of South African workers earning the current minimum of R28.79 per hour.
South Africa’s minimum wage currently stands at R28.79 per ordinary hour worked – a rate that was implemented in March 2025 following a 4.4% increase that aligned with inflation levels at the time.
For workers on a standard 38-hour week, this translates to R1 094 weekly or R4 737 monthly, while those working 45-hour weeks earn R1 295 weekly or R5 610 monthly.
The commission has made it clear that paying below this threshold remains illegal, with employers legally obligated to meet these minimum standards.
Expected changes for 2026
While the commission frames potential adjustments as “possible” changes, their track record suggests increases are virtually guaranteed. Since May 2023, the commission has committed to annual hikes above inflation rates to ensure wages grow in real terms.
The 2026 review represents the final year of a three-year strategic window established by the commission, making this consultation particularly significant for long-term wage planning.
Based on current inflation levels hovering around 3%, workers can anticipate a minimum increase of this percentage, potentially pushing the hourly rate above R29.65.
The commission faces the ongoing challenge of balancing worker welfare with business sustainability. Their decision-making process considers multiple economic factors, including: Consumer Price Index movements; Cost of living pressures; Gross Domestic Product performance; Employer capacity to maintain operations; impact on small and medium enterprises and employment creation potential
This delicate balance was evident in recent adjustments. The 2024 increase of 9.62% drew significant criticism from business groups following periods of high inflation, while the more moderate 4.4% hike for 2025 was better received by employers.
How to participate
Stakeholders have until 18 September, to submit their input to the process. Representations can be sent to the Department of Employment and Labour at Private Bag X117, Pretoria, 0001, or electronically to nmwreview@labour.gov.za.
The commission highlighted that stakeholder input plays a crucial role in determining final wage levels, as these submissions directly influence their recommendations to the minister.
As South Africa grapples with high unemployment and economic pressures, the minimum wage debate continues to highlight tensions between protecting worker purchasing power and maintaining business viability.
With the consultation period now open, both workers and employers will be watching closely to see how their input shapes South Africa’s wage landscape for 2026.
