South Africa’s National Minimum Wage Commission has opened its annual 2027 minimum wage review, giving workers, employers and unions until September 4, 2026, to weigh in.
The review comes as pressure builds on the South African economy to keep pay ahead of rising living costs.
The commission gathers submissions every year before compiling a recommendation report for the Minister of Employment and Labour, in line with Section 6(2) of the National Minimum Wage Act.
Acting chairperson Gavin Hartford confirmed the notice, saying the commission wants to “invite all interested parties to submit written representations” on possible adjustments.
How to submit input for the 2027 minimum wage review
Anyone wanting to have a say can complete the department’s online survey or send a written submission.
The survey asks whether the wage should rise in line with inflation, below it, or above it, and whether the current rate covers basic living expenses.
Written submissions go to Employment Standards, Department of Employment and Labour, Private Bag X117, Pretoria, 0001. Digital submissions can be emailed to nmwreview@labour.gov.za before the cutoff.
What South Africa’s national minimum wage is now
The current national minimum wage sits at R30.23 per ordinary hour, effective since March 1, 2026. Domestic workers and farm workers are paid the same rate.
New data highlights the gap between the legal minimum and what many domestic workers actually earn.
Workers on the Expanded Public Works Programme earn R16.62 per hour, while the contract cleaning sector’s metro rate is set at R33.27 per hour.
Employees who work fewer than four hours on a given day must still be paid for four hours. The rate excludes allowances, transport, board and tips.
Why the 2027 minimum wage could rise above inflation
With inflation running at about 3.5% nationally, the commission has historically pushed for increases above the consumer price index rather than in line with it. The South African Reserve Bank projects inflation will average 4.4% in 2026.
That would put next year’s baseline hourly rate at roughly R31.56 if the commission follows that pattern.
A rate of R31.56 would lift the standard 45-hour week rate to around R1,320, and the monthly minimum to close to R6,155 for workers on longer hours.
The commission will submit its recommendations to the minister later this year, followed by a further comment window once the annual report is published.
Full details of the current rates appear in the official gazette notice.
ALSO READ: A growing wave of globally experienced South Africans is returning home, reshaping the labour market and filling critical skills gaps.
