Report Thai Restaurants Face Challenges Amid Minimum Wage Increase

[snoop1130]

Photo courtesy of Travelvui

 

The Thai Restaurant Association has voiced concerns over the recent decision to increase the daily minimum wage to 400 baht, effective from July 1. This change affects all workers in Bangkok and extends to employees in most hotels and entertainment venues nationwide. Currently, the minimum wage in Bangkok is 372 baht per day.

 

Thaniwan Kulmongkol, President of the Thai Restaurant Association, noted that while many restaurants already pay above the minimum to attract workers, this increase could still present challenges, particularly for non-skilled foreign workers in the industry. She warned that workers earning slightly more than the new minimum might demand higher wages, potentially leading to increased salaries across all positions.

 

Thaniwan emphasised the importance of communication between restaurant owners and staff to navigate these challenging times effectively.

 

Suthiphon Somvasoon, owner of Kaotom Thewet in Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, highlighted ongoing labour shortages, noting that many Thais are hesitant to work in the restaurant sector. While foreign workers can fill many roles, some management and chef positions still require Thai nationals. Suthiphon explained that his staff already earn above the new minimum wage, with only new, inexperienced hires starting at the legal minimum. To attract workers, the restaurant offers meals and accommodation.

 

He addressed the economic downturn's impact on the industry and stated that, as current wages exceed 400 baht, further wage increases are not planned. However, the rising wage poses an additional strain on restaurants already struggling with climbing raw material costs, potentially leading to higher prices for customers.

 

Suthiphon suggested that the government should introduce economic stimulus measures to lure foreign tourists, including tackling issues like overcharging by taxis and tuk-tuks to improve the tourist experience.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-19

 

 

[hotchilli]

15 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Currently, the minimum wage in Bangkok is 372 baht per day.

A pittance with reference to the cost of living

[thjames007]

The Association should be embarrassed with those comments.   28 baht a day per employee.  Who works 27 to 30 days a month! 

 

Slave labour and they want to complain about a slight increase.   Wow! 

[Peterphuket]

Again? Every time I see that the employee can get a little extra, you get the same objections.
I think people here have had to settle for 300Thb/day for 15 years, and the same objections every time.