Early-year wage increase boosts workers’ morale

21:27, 07/01/2026

In the early days of 2026, as the Lunar New Year of the Horse approaches, the increase in the minimum wage for employees working under labor contracts from January 1, 2026, by businesses truly brings practical joy to a large number of workers employed both inside and outside industrial zones in the area.

According to Government Decree No. 293/2025/ND-CP, dated November 10, 2025, issued by the government, which stipulates the minimum wage for employees working under labor contracts (effective from January 1, 2026), the regional minimum wage will increase by an average of approximately 7.2% compared to 2025, equivalent to a rise of 250,000 to 350,000 VND per month depending on the geographical area. In many businesses across the province, actual wage increases range from 7% to 10%, depending on job position and years of service.

For workers, especially amid rising living costs, a wage increase, particularly at the beginning of the year, not only boosts income but also provides better conditions to prepare for Tet (Lunar New Year) and cover daily expenses. Moreover, the wage adjustment serves as recognition of workers’ efforts and contributions to businesses and society. For Dong Nai, an industrial province with a large population of migrant workers, this is even more meaningful. Higher wages help workers feel more secure in their jobs, strengthen long-term attachment to the locality, reduce labor turnover after Tet, and contribute to stabilizing the workforce for production.

Not only do workers benefit, but a reasonable wage increase also brings many positive outcomes for businesses. First, it is a direct investment in people, serving as the key factor determining a business’s productivity, quality, and competitiveness. As living standards improve, employees are more motivated to work, which enhances their discipline and sense of responsibility, thereby helping to reduce recruitment and training costs. In the long term, a transparent wage policy that complies with legal regulations also helps businesses build a positive image, earn the trust of employees, partners, and society, and move toward stable and sustainable development.

To ensure that wage increases are implemented effectively and adequately, the roles of trade unions and businesses are essential. Businesses must publicly disclose their wage adjustment plans, engage in dialogue with employees, and consult grassroots trade unions to ensure fairness and legal compliance. Trade unions should strengthen oversight and promptly protect the legitimate rights of employees. At the same time, they should work to raise awareness among workers about their rights and obligations, while encouraging them to share in the difficulties businesses are facing in the current context.

In addition to the joy of salary increases, workers in Dong Nai province are also receiving other positive news. By the end of 2025, three social housing projects with more than 3,600 apartments for low-income earners will be launched in areas near industrial zones, gradually realizing the goal of developing 65,000 social housing units during the 2025–2030 period. These projects not only address immediate housing needs but also nurture the "dream of secure housing", serving as an essential foundation for workers to feel confident in building their careers and to remain committed to the province in the long term.

In addition, Tet care activities organized by the Dong Nai Provincial Federation of Labour continue to spread the spirit of warmth and solidarity, helping workers clearly feel the support of the trade union and local authorities.

It can be affirmed that salary increases, along with welfare programs, social housing, and Tet holiday support, not only improve the lives of workers but also create a foundation for workforce stability, sustainable business development, and promote long-term socio-economic growth of the locality.

By Dang Ngoc - Translated by Quoc Dung, Minho