25.11.2025 13:11
Expectations for the minimum wage in 2026 are becoming clearer ahead of the negotiations that will start in December. Just like last year, it is anticipated that the increase will be based on the target inflation rate, with expert predictions ranging between 20% and 30%. According to these scenarios, the lower limit for the minimum wage in 2026 is calculated to be 26,524 TL, while the highest possible figure is estimated to be 28,735 TL.
The countdown has begun for the minimum wage that will be valid in 2026. The Minimum Wage Determination Commission, which will convene in December, will sit at the table to determine the salaries of millions. As was the case last year, it is expected that the targeted inflation will be taken into account in the determination.
TARGET INFLATION FORMULA BACK ON THE AGENDA
Last year, the minimum wage increase was made by adding a welfare share to the targeted inflation, and the wage was increased by 30% to reach 22,104 TL. It is being discussed in the corridors that a similar method will be followed this year as well.
EXPERTS: EXPECTATION OF INCREASE BETWEEN 20%–30%
According to the expectations of economists and market experts, the 2026 minimum wage increase is shaping up to be between 20% and 30%.
The Central Bank has announced for the year 2026:
- Inflation interim target: %16
- Forecast range: %13 – %19
It is expected that the increase range will become clearer with the addition of a welfare share of 5% to 10% to these rates.
MINIMUM WAGE LOWER LIMIT 26,524 TL
The prominent scenarios regarding the minimum wage for 2026 within the framework of the formula are as follows:
- 20% increase: 26,524 TL
- 25% increase: 27,630 TL
- 30% increase: 28,735 TL
Accordingly, the lower limit for the minimum wage in 2026 is 26,524 TL, while in the optimistic scenario, the figure rises to 28,735 TL.
MINIMUM WAGE LIST ACCORDING TO INCREASE RATE;
- 21% increase → 26,745 TL
- 22% increase → 26,966 TL
- 23% increase → 27,187 TL
- 24% increase → 27,408 TL
- 25% increase → 27,630 TL
- 26% increase → 27,851 TL
- 27% increase → 28,072 TL
- 28% increase → 28,293 TL
- 29% increase → 28,514 TL
- 30% increase → 28,735 TL