FADWU proposes higher Minimum Allowable Wage and food allowance for foreign domestic helpers

FADWU proposal. On 5 July 2026, the Hong Kong Federation of Asian Domestic Workers Unions (FADWU) proposed raising the Minimum Allowable Wage from HK$5,100 to HK$6,670 and the food allowance from HK$1,236 to HK$2,770 during a Labour Department consultation. ↗ This was a union proposal, not a Government-announced update to the Minimum Allowable Wage.

What is currently confirmed

At the 21 September 2026 check, the Labour Department FAQ states that the prevailing Minimum Allowable Wage is HK$5,100 a month for Standard Employment Contracts signed on or after 30 September 2025. ↗ The Labour Department's Employer's Corner states that employers who do not provide free food must pay a food allowance of not less than HK$1,236 a month. ↗

Who is affected

The proposal may be relevant to employers and foreign domestic helpers following the consultation. It does not change a signed contract or create a new rate on its own.

Practical next steps

Do not change a signed contract based on a proposal or media report alone. For a new contract, check the Labour Department's current guidance immediately before signing. If the Government announces revised rates, it will specify the contract-signing date from which they apply.

Last verified

21 September 2026. This item is retained as a dated proposal, not an evergreen wage guide.