A new era for the minimum wage: Calculations for salaries have changed

With the second half of the year underway, millions of employees have their eyes on what the 2027 minimum wage will be. While the amount by which the current minimum wage, which was announced as a net 28 thousand 75 TL at the beginning of 2026, will be increased in the new year is being debated, a system different from the customary uniform structure has been brought to the agenda.

This new model, which is taking shape under the coordination of the relevant ministries and institutions of the state, aims to base itself on both regional and sectoral needs. In particular, it is intended to eliminate cost and income imbalances that occur in Turkey's regions with different levels of economic development and in various sectors.

Sources close to the work underline that protecting the purchasing power of workers is the priority in the upcoming regulation. At the same time, sustainability will be considered so that the competitiveness of producers and employers is not negatively affected.

In the initial stages of the draft plans, unlike the current system, higher increases in regions where the cost of living is high or base wage regulations specific to certain sectors are being discussed. Once the preparations are completed, the opinions of both the worker and employer sides will be taken, and then the final decision will be shared with the public.

Minimum wage policies applied in different countries around the world also stand out as a guide in the search for a model. Although a federal minimum wage is legal in the USA, there are higher minimum wage applications in states and even some cities. In Canada, provinces determine their own base wages. In the Far East, income levels in countries such as Japan, China, and India can be adjusted according to the economic situation of administrative regions.

In European countries, a uniform application is not encountered. While a general minimum wage is legally present in Germany, higher levels come into play through collective bargaining agreements in certain sectors. Italy and Austria have adopted a sectoral-based wage determination model.

Belgium, on the other hand, has both a national base wage and provides opportunities for employees who earn above this level through collective labor agreements in some sectors.

THE INCREASE IN 2027 IS ON EVERYONE'S AGENDA

The progress of the preparations carried out by the ministry and relevant institutions is being closely followed by both employees and employers. Whether the new model will be implemented, who it will affect in the minimum wage and at what rate, and what the raise amount will be will be finalized in the coming days.

As a result, this new system that the government is working on aims to create a balanced and sustainable structure for both the employee and the employer by taking into account the country's economic conditions, regional differences, and sector-based needs. The 2027 minimum wage increase rate and method continue to be one of the main topics that maintain their heat in the public eye.