Vietnam to raise regional minimum wage by 7.8% starting Jan 2027

The Ministry of Internal Affairs is drafting a decree to increase Vietnam's regional minimum wage by an average of 7.8% effective 1 January 2027. The proposal sets new monthly minimum wages of VND 5,700,000 (region I), VND 5,080,000 (region II), VND 4,450,000 (region III) and VND 4,040,000 (region IV), up from the current VND 310,000‑390,000 range. Corresponding hourly rates would rise to VND 27,400, VND 24,400, VND 21,400 and VND 19,400 respectively, calculated by converting the monthly figures using the standard work‑hour framework endorsed by the International Labour Organization. The adjustment aims to ensure a basic living standard for workers, align wages with productivity and economic growth, and balance employer competitiveness. Unemployment benefits could rise to a maximum of VND 28.5 million under the new wage floor.