Vietnam to implement 7.2% minimum wage hike effective Jan 1, 2026

Vietnam will roll out a nationwide minimum wage increase from January 1, 2026. Under the revised regulations, monthly minimum wages for employees on labour contracts will rise by VND250,000 to VND350,000 (~$9.52–$13.33), representing an average increase of 7.2 per cent over current levels.

Hourly minimum wages will also be revised nationwide, ranging from VND17,800 to VND25,500 (~$0.68-$0.97) per hour. These rates will form the statutory basis for wage negotiations and payments, ensuring that employees paid on a monthly, hourly, daily or output basis receive no less than the prescribed minimum once converted.

Vietnam will implement a nationwide minimum wage hike from January 1, 2026, raising monthly wages by 7.2 per cent on average, with regional and hourly rates also revised.
The changes are accompanied by new policies on labour registration, administrative enforcement, agricultural land-use tax and technology transfer, alongside clearer rules to strengthen labour market governance and compliance.

Monthly minimum wages will be revised across all four regions, with the highest levels set for region 1 and the lowest for region 4.

The updated regulations are being introduced alongside a broader set of new measures covering labour registration, administrative penalties, agricultural land-use tax and technology transfer linked to major railway infrastructure projects.

New rules on labour registration and the labour market information system will take effect, clarifying registration procedures for workers, unemployed persons and those not covered by compulsory social insurance, as per Vietnamese media reports.

From the same date, updated provisions governing the enforcement of administrative sanction decisions will be implemented, outlining clearer principles, processes and responsibilities to strengthen lawful and effective execution.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (SG)