Foreign carer scheme may drive up wages, leave poor without help, employers warn

A new pilot scheme announced by Hong Kong's Chief Executive, John Lee Ka-chiu, aims to bring foreign domestic carers for the elderly to address the growing population and aging demographics. However, some employers and agencies warn that the scheme could disrupt the existing helper market, drive up wages, and leave low-income residents struggling to find affordable care.

The minimum wage for carers under the pilot scheme would be 10 to 20 percent higher than the current minimum for helpers, which stands at HK$5,100 (US$654) per month. Betty Yung, chairwoman of the Hong Kong Employers of Domestic Helpers Association, questioned the need for a separate category of workers and expressed concerns about how the government could help low-income families afford the higher wages.

Some employers fear that helpers may move to the new scheme to earn more, leaving families struggling to recruit workers for other family members in need. Authorities stated that carers under the pilot scheme must have experience in elderly care and undergo relevant training in their home countries. Thomas Chan, chairman of the Hong Kong Union of Employment Agencies, expects carers admitted under the new scheme to be paid more due to their additional skills.

However, experts and NGOs urge the government to consider better wages for current helpers and provide subsidies for low-income families who may struggle to afford the higher costs under the new scheme.