Cambodian Labor Leaders Expect Smooth Minimum Wage Negotiations for 2026

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Aug. 19, 2025) — Cambodian labor leaders and government officials expressed optimism Tuesday that upcoming negotiations on the 2026 minimum wage for garment, footwear, travel goods, and bag workers will proceed smoothly and yield positive outcomes.

Sam Soeun, President of the National Trade Union Council, said he expects constructive dialogue among all parties involved, including employers, unions, and the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training.

“I hope this year’s wage talks will be smooth, with the government playing a thoughtful and balanced role,” Soeun said. “Both employers and unions have matured in their professional engagement, which will help ensure better outcomes.”

Labor Ministry spokesperson Sun Mesa echoed the sentiment, saying all stakeholders have demonstrated a shared commitment to reaching a fair agreement. He noted that years of experience have helped parties better understand the legal framework and negotiation procedures outlined in Cambodia’s minimum wage law, which considers factors such as inflation, cost of living, productivity, competitiveness, labor market conditions, and sector profitability.

Mesa added that the ministry will convene the first meeting of the fourth-term National Minimum Wage Council on Wednesday, Aug. 20, at its headquarters in Phnom Penh. The meeting will be chaired by Labor Minister Heng Sour and will include 51 council members representing the government, workers, and employers in equal proportion.

In 2025, the government raised the minimum wage to $208 per month. With additional benefits, workers currently earn between $225 and $236 monthly, excluding contributions from Cambodia’s National Social Security Fund.