Bangkok is set to implement a new minimum wage increase, effective July 1, as part of Thailand’s nationwide adjustment to support workers amid rising living costs. The capital’s daily minimum wage will rise from 363 baht to 372 baht, marking a 2.5 percent increase for employees in Bangkok and its surrounding provinces, including Nakhon Pathom, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Samut Prakan, and Samut Sakhon. This move is part of a broader wage reform that took effect across the country at the start of 2025.
The new wage structure introduces 17 different rates depending on the province, reflecting variations in living expenses and economic conditions throughout Thailand. Bangkok’s new rate of 372 baht per day is among the higher tiers, though not the highest. Provinces with the most robust economies and highest living costs, such as Phuket, Chachoengsao, Chonburi, Rayong, and Koh Samui district, now offer the top minimum wage of 400 baht per day. Meanwhile, the lowest rate of 337 baht per day applies to the southern border provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, and Yala.
The adjustment is expected to benefit millions of workers in the capital, helping them better cope with inflation and the rising cost of living. The Wage Committee, which includes representatives from the government, employers, and employees, based its decision on cost-of-living data and the economic structure of each region. For businesses, the new rates necessitate payroll adjustments to ensure compliance with legal requirements, particularly for those employing workers at the previous minimum wage.
While the increase is welcomed by labor groups, some business owners have expressed concerns about higher operational costs, especially in sectors reliant on low-wage labor. Nonetheless, the government maintains that the wage hike is a necessary step toward economic equity and competitiveness, aiming to balance the needs of workers with the realities faced by employers in a changing economic landscape.
“Your donation helps us cover global events, ensuring everyone stays informed.”
(Source: Ministry of Labour | Wageindicator Foundation | Asean Business News | Bangkok Post)
