Budget Debate: Minimum wage to increase by $1,000 in July
The National Minimum Wage will be increased by $1,000 to $17,000 per week effective July 1.
Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness made the announcement Thursday during his contribution to the 2026/27 Budget Debate.
He had promised during last year’s general election campaign that the minimum wage would have been increased by $2,500 but on Thursday sought to explain why this was not possible at this time.
“Last year we signalled our intention to continue the journey from a minimum wage to a livable wage and we indicated that the next step would be to increase the minimum wage to $18,500.
“However, in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, many of our businesses are rebuilding, many households are still recovering and the economy is now navigating yet again another external shock in terms of energy price and shipping costs,” Holness said.
“In this context, the Government believes it is important to strike the right balance by continuing to improve the earnings of workers while recognising the realities employers face,” he added.
Continuing, he said, “We therefore propose a measured increase in the minimum wage from $16,000 to $17,000 effective July 1, 2026.”
The prime minister said this does not reflect a departure from the Government’s long-term policy objective.
“The Government remains committed to transitioning from a minimum wage to a livable wage and as economic conditions stabilise we will continue the phased increases necessary to realise that vision of the Jamaican worker,” Holness assured.
