Thailand's Minimum Wage Increase

Thailand Minimum Wage Increase

Thailand’s minimum wage is set to rise by the new year. Many, including current Thai PM Srettha Thavisin, think the raise is too low.

Here’s how much it will rise by and the response to it.

Daily minimum wage to go up by ฿2-16 depending on the province

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Image credit: Romain Dancre via Unsplash

A committee comprising representatives from the business sector, labour, and the government approved the minimum wage rise on 8th December 2023. The new wages will go up by ฿2-16 depending on the province, and will take effect on 1 January 2024.

Phuket and the central provinces, such as Bangkok and Nonthaburi, will see some of the biggest increases. Phuket’s minimum wage will go up from ฿354 to ฿370, an increase of ฿16. The central provinces will see their minimum wage increase from ฿353 to ฿363.

The provinces that will receive the least amount of wage increase are the southern provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, and Yala. These provinces will only see a wage increase of ฿2, an increase from ฿328 to ฿330.

Many are unhappy with the wage increases

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Image credit: Ragnar Vorel via Unsplash

Current Thai PM Srettha Thavisin has voiced his concerns over the minimum wage increases. He specifically pointed out on 9th December that the ฿2-3 increase in the southern provinces is not even enough to buy an egg.

Despite his controversial route to premiership, PM Thavisin has taken 11 trips abroad, with many aimed at convincing foreign businesses to invest in Thailand to help bolster the economy. The minimum wage still falls short of Pheu Thai’s promises of ฿600, however.

Positive signs for the new year

Despite the news of Thailand’s minimum wage increase falling well short of the goal, there are positive signs going forward. There are many who are not only unsatisfied with the minimum wage, but are also pushing for it to increase further. With Thailand’s policies encouraging tourism, especially to southern provinces, it may boost the struggling economic situation.

If you need help saving money, check out our guides to second-hand markets in Bangkok where you can find hidden treasures so cheap you’ll feel guilty. Or if you need a cheap hearty meal, try our affordable mookata guide.

Cover image adapted from: Ragnar Vorel via Unsplash and Romain Dancre via Unsplash