Cambodia's 2026 Minimum Wage Expected to Surpass Regional Peers

The Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training in Cambodia has announced that the minimum wage for workers in the textile, garment, footwear, travel goods, and bag industries is projected to reach approximately $229 per month in 2026. This includes a base wage of $210 and approximately $229.5 in various benefits, excluding overtime and other allowances. According to the ministry's report, this minimum wage is higher than that of several key producing countries, including Sri Lanka ($93), Myanmar ($97), Bangladesh ($102), Laos ($114), Pakistan ($143), India (approximately $192), and Vietnam (ranging from $147 to $211 depending on the region). Mr. Sun Mesa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training, stated that Cambodia is committed to improving the living standards of its workers. He added that the government strives to maintain a balance between the interests of workers, the capabilities of employers, and the competitiveness of the production sector. Mesa further explained that, in addition to wages, Cambodian workers also benefit from the social security system, which includes healthcare, work-related risks, pensions, and other benefits. These provisions help reduce the financial burden on workers and enhance their income security.