The Hong Kong government has officially raised the minimum monthly wage for foreign domestic helpers by 2.35%, bringing the new rate to HK$5,220 (US$665). Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han stated that the decision was based on the city’s stronger economic performance over the past year. According to Sun, the government’s primary goal in implementing this adjustment was to ensure the outcome remained “balanced and acceptable” for all parties involved.

Despite the government’s characterization of the move as a balanced compromise, the policy has drawn criticism from opposing sides. Labor unions have expressed disappointment, suggesting the raise is insufficient given the cost of living and the nature of the work performed by domestic helpers. Conversely, employer groups have also voiced dissatisfaction, indicating that the increase places an additional financial burden on households already struggling with economic pressures. While the government maintains that the annual adjustment mechanism is designed to reflect current economic realities, the reception from stakeholders suggests a lack of consensus on whether the new wage effectively addresses the concerns of either group.