# The German government has backed an increase in the minimum wage to 291-rand per hour, the largest hike since the country adopted a minimum wage a decade ago. The increase will come in two stages. Labour Minister Baerbel Bas says six-million employees will receive noticeably more for their work and companies can responsibly spread the rising costs over two years. An independent commission, made up of economists, trade union leaders and representatives from business and employer groups, recommended the two-stage increase back in June.
German government approves increasing minimum wage to R291/hour over next two years