1. The Headlines: Sustained Wage Growth The core of the new policy is a clear, three-year schedule of wage increases. The government has accepted recommendations from the Tripartite Cluster for Food Services Industry (TCF) to ensure that wages keep pace with the cost of living and median wage growth. Entry-Level Milestone: From July 1, 2026, the baseline monthly gross wage for entry-level food services workers will rise to S$2,220 (up from the current S$2,080). The Three-Year

Running an SME in Singapore means staying lean, efficient, and compliant — often without a full HR or legal team. In 2026, employment compliance becomes more demanding, with tighter enforcement on Work Permits, payroll, and fair employment practices by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). If you employ foreign workers, manage local staff, or plan to hire this year, this checklist highlights what SMEs must do, where risks usually arise, and how to stay audit ready. Why 2026 Mat