The Haitian government announced on Monday, May 4, 2026, an increase in the minimum wage for workers in the subcontracting sector, rising from 685 to 1000 gourdes. This increase in the basic daily wage follows several days of protests organized by workers of the National Society of Industrial Parks (SONAPI) in the capital, Port-au-Prince, and those of the Industrial Development Company (CODEVI) in Ouanaminthe, in the Nord-Est department.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Economy and Finance, Mr. Serge Gabriel Collin, during a press conference held at the headquarters of the Economic and Social Assistance Fund (FAES) in Delmas 75, in the presence of the Minister of Planning and External Cooperation, Sandra Paulemon, acting Minister of Social Affairs and Labor, as well as the Director General of FAES, Kesner Romilus, and members of the Superior Wage Council.
“This decision illustrates the government’s determination to respond, with responsibility and a sense of state duty, to the legitimate expectations of workers, who are essential actors in the dynamics of national economic recovery,” stated a government press release.
Minister Serge Gabriel Collin indicated that the minimum wage increase will be gradually extended to all relevant segments, with a concern for balance and sustainability.
During the protest movements organized last month, workers were demanding a minimum wage of 3000 gourdes in order to cope with the rising cost of living. The main union associations involved in the protests had not immediately reacted to the government’s announcement regarding the increase of the basic daily wage to 1000 gourdes.
The communiqué states that the government is “aware of the strategic role of the private sector in creating jobs and wealth and, therefore, has initiated discussions regarding the reduction of energy costs, particularly in its renewable component.”
As of January 2027, the electricity tariff in the Caracol Park area will be reduced to 21 cents per kilowatt-hour, compared to the current 30 cents. This measure, coordinated with economic partners, aims to improve access to essential services, particularly for the benefit of the most vulnerable populations, the communiqué reads.
The Minister of Economy and Finance also announced the implementation of direct financial support for workers. To this end, a fund of 625 million gourdes will be mobilized for the last five months of the 2025-2026 fiscal year, reflecting the executive branch’s ongoing commitment to social protection and purchasing power.
Like households, Haitian businesses are being hard hit by the severe security crisis that has shaken the country for several years. The consequences are catastrophic for many companies, some of which have been forced to reduce their activities, implement staff cuts, or even close down permanently. This persistent deterioration of the business climate further weakens an already vulnerable economic fabric and undermines job creation, even as social needs remain immense.
In this difficult context for businesses, the government assures that it wants to support the private sector to prevent the minimum wage increase from worsening the situation of the most fragile employers.
The press release reaffirms the government’s desire to create an environment conducive to investment, employment, and growth, while respecting national priorities. Under the leadership of the Prime Minister, government action remains resolutely focused on stability, social cohesion, and preserving the dignity of every Haitian household.
