Minimum wage in Türkiye might be increased again if needed: Labor Minister
Minimum wage increase in Türkiye for 2025 could occur again.
Following public reactions to Türkiye’s recent minimum wage increase, Minister of Labor and Social Security Vedat Isikhan announced that an interim increase could be made in case of a setback in inflation.
Isikhan stated that such a decision would be considered by the Economic Coordination Board, which is the Turkish government’s economic directorate consisting of the ministers of agriculture, energy, finance, industry, labor, and trade and led by the vice president.
Speaking in a live broadcast on a television channel, Isikhan set sight in July for the interim increase if necessary, saying “It may come back on the agenda if we face a setback, a disaster, or another situation.”
‘Türkiye succeeded in boosting employment’
Emphasizing that the minimum wage was set for a one-year period with the aim of ‘strengthening the economic system,’ Minister Isikhan highlighted expectations for lowering inflation in 2025.
Isikhan highlighted that Türkiye achieved significant employment growth thanks to its decisive economic policies and visionary approach, stating, “In 2023 and 2024, there has been a notable increase in labor force participation. Unlike many developing countries, our nation has succeeded in boosting employment.”
What is current minimum wage in Türkiye?
Türkiye’s government announced a 30% increase in the minimum wage for 2025, setting the monthly salary at ₺22,104 ($630.36). The decision came after multiple discussions by the Minimum Wage Determination Commission, concluding a series of meetings throughout December.
While the hike was designed to address inflation concerns, it fell short of demands from labor unions, reigniting debates over economic fairness and inflation strategies.
