Germany’s government-appointed commission announced a decision to raise the country’s hourly minimum wage to €14.60 ($17.11 USD), effective by 2027. This adjustment marks a significant increase from the current rate of €12.41 ($14.55 USD), set in October 2022, and positions Germany’s minimum wage as the second-highest in the European Union, trailing only Luxembourg. The decision follows a review by the Minimum Wage Commission, which includes representatives from employers, trade unions, and government officials, conducted every two years as mandated by German law. The new rate is expected to benefit approximately 6.5 million workers, including those in retail, hospitality, and manufacturing sectors, with the transition beginning with incremental raises starting in 2026. The commission’s statement highlighted the goal of ensuring fair compensation amid rising living costs, with the final €14.60 rate reflecting economic data and labor market conditions. Implementation will involve coordination with state governments to adjust public sector wages accordingly. Posts found on X indicate public interest, with some users noting the potential impact on small businesses, though no official economic forecasts were released. The decision aligns with Germany’s ongoing efforts to strengthen worker protections, with the new wage expected to bring the average monthly income for minimum wage earners to approximately €2,500 ($2,930 USD) by 2027.
34news.online
34news.online
