Minimum Wage Moves to $17,000 on July 1

As of July 1, 2026, the national minimum wage will increase by $1,000, moving from $16,000 to $17,000 per 40-hour work week.

Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, made the announcement in his contribution to the 2026/27 Budget Debate in the House of Representatives on March 19.

“Last year, we signalled our intention to continue the journey from a minimum wage to a livable wage, and we indicated that the next step would be to increase the minimum wage to $18,500.

“However, in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, many of our businesses are rebuilding, many households are still recovering, and the economy is navigating yet again another external shock in terms of energy prices and shipping costs. In this context, the Government believes it is important to strike the right balance by continuing to improve earnings of workers while recognising the realities employers face,” the Prime Minister said.

He told the House that the proposed increase does not represent a departure from the Government’s long-term policy objective.

“The Government remains committed to transition from a minimum wage to a livable wage, and as economic conditions stabilise, we will continue the phased increase necessary to realise that vision of the Jamaican worker,” he said.