The Minister of Employment and Labour, Ms. Nomakhosazana Meth, has announced an increase in the National Minimum Wage (NMW) for the year 2025, raising it from R27.58 to R28.79 per ordinary hour worked. This adjustment marks a 4.2 percent increase and is aimed at enhancing the economic stability of workers in South Africa.

“The implementation of the National Minimum Wage Act, which came into effect in 2019, has been an essential facet of South Africa's labour market reforms. This law mandates employers to remunerate employees at a minimum threshold, ensuring that no worker is paid below this legally established rate. As part of the government’s commitment to social protection initiatives, the NMW will undergo annual reviews, with the next adjustment enforceable from 1 March 2025,” Meth stated.

Meth emphasised the significance of these increases: “We are committed to the implementation of social protection initiatives and wage increases, such as the introduction and implementation of the National Minimum Wage, as this ensures that workers receive their dues and are not exploited for the services they render. No employer may pay wages that are below the minimum wage.”

She added that the forthcoming adjustment reflects the government’s recognition of the economic realities faced by many workers. “Applicable to all employees, the NMW also encompasses vulnerable sectors, including farm and domestic workers, who have been aligned with NMW rates since 2022.”

While strict adherence to the NMW is required, exceptions do exist. Workers employed under the Expanded Public Works Programme will see an increase from R15.16 to R15.83 per hour. Those engaged in learnership agreements, as outlined in the Skills Development Act, will receive allowances determined in the latest government gazette. Furthermore, the NMW Act does not apply to volunteers or specific government agencies such as the South African National Defence Force and the National Intelligence Agency.

For transparency and clarity, comprehensive tables outlining the adjustments for the Contract Cleaning Sector and Wholesale and Retail Sector, as well as other relevant categories, will be accessible on the Department of Employment and Labour’s website at www.labour.gov.za. “This digital resource aims to keep employers and employees well-informed about their rights and responsibilities concerning the NMW,” Meth concluded.