The Ministry of Labor, in conjunction with the National Wage Committee (CNS), has announced a significant 25% increase to the minimum wage for workers in the country’s manufacturing and service free zone sector.
The raise will be implemented in two phases: a 13% increase effective 1 June 2025, followed by a further 12% increase on 1 June 2026, stated Labor Minister Eddy Olivares Ortega. The minimum wages are reviewed every two years.
“This is the largest wage increase in history for free zone workers and will directly contribute to improving their quality of life,” affirmed Minister Eddy Olivares Ortega. He added that the raise aligns with the government’s commitment, spearheaded by President Luis Abinader, to ensure dignified jobs and fair wages as outlined in the Labor Code.
The minister emphasized the government’s ongoing dedication to promoting policies that elevate working conditions across all productive sectors.
José Manuel Torres, executive vice president of the Dominican Free Zone Association (Adozona), praised the 25% increase, highlighting it as a testament to the government’s strong social commitment to the free zone sector amidst challenging international economic conditions. He said the increase will benefit 66% of the employees of free zones.
The minimum wage will go from RD$16,700 a present to RD$18,871 in June 2025 and to RD$20,871 in June 2026.
“We recognize the support of President Abinader and the Ministers of Labor and Industry, Commerce and MIPYMEs with whom we have worked proactively to capitalize on market opportunities,” said Torres.
“While the world grapples with multiple crises and tensions rise in some regions, we have reached a positive accord that acknowledges the contributions of workers and employers to the nation’s prosperity,” Rafael (Pepe) Abreu, representing the labor sector, stated.
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Ministry of Labor
7 Dias
30 April 2025