As the end of the year approaches for the minimum wage that will be valid in 2027, wage hike scenarios have begun to appear on the agenda. The new figure for the minimum wage, which was applied as 28 thousand 75 lira and 50 kuruş net and 33 thousand 30 lira gross in 2026, is expected to be clarified following the meetings of the Minimum Wage Determination Commission, which will begin in December.
Sworn-in Financial Advisor and Economist Muhammet Bayram stated in his assessment regarding the potential increase that the 30 percent hike scenario has come to the fore. According to Bayram, if an increase at this rate is implemented, the minimum wage could approach the 36,500 TL level. In the 25 percent increase option, it is stated that the figure could be around 35,000 TL.
Bayram said that while determining the minimum wage, not only the purchasing power of employees but also the financing and cost conditions in which employers find themselves should be taken into account. Stating that the state plays a balancing role in the commission, Bayram emphasized that the primary goal is for the employee to receive the reward for their labor and for the employer to be able to continue their operations.
What is important here is to increase the purchasing power of the citizens and protect their rights. It is important for the employer to be able to continue their business more comfortably in a difficult economic environment and a high-interest environment, and for the citizen to receive the reward for their labor without worrying about making a living.
Bayram expressed that he does not find it correct to take the average of the inflation that occurred last year and the targeted inflation as a basis, and that the realized inflation should at least be accepted as a floor in wage increases. Reminding that Türk-İş did not attend the last meetings due to its objections to the commission's structure, Bayram stated that the process should be carried out in a way that protects workers' rights.
EMPHASIS ON INCOME TAX AND INTERIM RAISE
Drawing attention to the fact that salaried employees in the private sector experience salary losses during the year due to income tax alongside minimum wage discussions, Bayram said that a decrease in net wages can be seen towards September and October. Bayram stated that reducing or eliminating the income tax burden on wage earners could be brought to the agenda.
Stating that a wage increase alone may not be sufficient to support the welfare of employees, Bayram said that items such as clothing and fuel assistance, and especially rent support in metropolitan cities, could also be discussed.
Another topic Bayram drew attention to was the possibility of an interim raise in July. Arguing that the raise made at the beginning of the year erodes during the year against high inflation, Bayram stated that he sees a high probability of a second increase in the minimum wage in July 2027. However, he added that this step should be planned within a framework that does not increase the cost to the employer.
The rate to be determined for the minimum wage will affect not only minimum wage earners but also other salary negotiations in the private sector. According to Bayram, the increase to be made to the minimum wage will also serve as a reference for employees at different wage levels.
News Source: 12punto
