NWC recommends 6% to 8% pay rises for lower-wage workers, highest since 2021
Lower-wage workers in Singapore could receive built-in wage increases of 6 per cent to 8 per cent under the National Wages Council (NWC) guidelines for 2026/2027, the highest recommended range since quantitative wage guidelines were introduced in 2021.The Government accepted the guidelines on Monday (Oct 19), which will apply from Dec 1, 2026, to Nov 30, 2027. The recommendations for lower-wage workers apply to employees earning a gross monthly wage of up to $2,800.The recommendations reflect Singapore's stronger-than-expected economic performance and continued productivity growth, while allowing employers to calibrate wage increases according to their business performance and prospects.Under the guidelines, employers that have done well and have positive business prospects should provide lower-wage workers with a built-in wage increase at the higher end of the 6 per cent to 8 per cent range, or at least $135 to $170, whichever is higher.Employers that have performed well but face uncertain business prospects are encouraged to provide increases around the middle of the recommended range.