15 Hong Kong construction trades face wage freeze from November, only excavator operators to receive 3.2% raise

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A total of 13 trades have reportedly had salaries frozen for two consecutive years.

Starting November 2025, wages for 15 out of 16 major construction trades in Hong Kong will remain unchanged, with only excavator operators receiving a pay increase of 3.2%, according to the Hong Kong Construction Industry Employees General Union.

Daily wages for affected trades – including rebar workers, concrete specialists, scaffolders, and plumbers – will stay within the current range of HK$1,500 to HK$2,930. Excavator operators, the only group to receive an increase, will see their daily rate rise by HK$50, from HK$1,550 to HK$1,600.

The union conducted a member survey between September and October to assess employment and salary conditions in Hong Kong. The decision to freeze pay was made following consultations with affiliated unions and industry stakeholders.

Local media reports, such as HK01, indicate that 13 of these trades have already been faced with wage freezes for two consecutive years.

The union highlighted that Hong Kong's construction sector is undergoing economic restructuring and facing multiple challenges.

It urged the HKSAR Government to support the industry by revitalising the economy, and to collaborate with the industry players and the labour sector to enhance local training, promote technological adoption to boost productivity, and expand re-employment and job-matching services.

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