Prime Minister Gaston Browne says any increase to the country’s minimum wage must be carefully managed to avoid harming small businesses and the wider economy.

Browne said adjustments would have a ripple effect, particularly on small businesses that employ many minimum-wage workers, warning that sharp increases could lead to layoffs or closures.

“We have to create the balance… to ensure employees are treated fairly, while at the same time ensuring the sustainability of businesses,” he said, cautioning against immediate jumps to levels such as US$15 per hour.

He added that wage increases could also affect higher salary brackets, requiring adjustments across pay scales to maintain differences between categories.

The prime minister said an increase is expected but will be guided by feedback from a two-week consultation process. He also noted the proposed changes could cost the government about $11 million annually and may have implications for inflation.