The Department of Employment and Labour has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening compliance with the adjustment of the National Minimum Wage (NMW) in order to safeguard the rights and livelihoods of workers.
The revised NMW came into effect on 1 March 2026, increasing from R28.79 to R30.23 per hour. The department has called for cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure the full and effective implementation of the new wage.
In a media statement, the department noted that non-compliance remains a significant challenge. “Approximately 40% of employers are still not complying with the minimum wage. This 40–60 split has remained consistent since 2019. With additional capacity being introduced, we believe enforcement will improve over time and employers will increasingly recognise that the risks of non-compliance are not worth taking,” the department said.
Employers experiencing financial difficulties in meeting the new wage requirements are encouraged to apply for relief through the online exemption process.
“Employers who are unable to afford the National Minimum Wage may apply for an exemption. During the application process, employers are required to submit financial information. The system then analyses affordability based on the figures and information provided and determines whether an exemption can be granted. It is a straightforward process that does not take long,” the department explained.
With the growing number of labour inspectors, the ministry remains confident that it will strengthen enforcement and achieve its goal of protecting workers—particularly vulnerable groups such as farm workers and domestic workers—from exploitation.
