20.12.2025 18:05
While the process of determining the new minimum wage continues, a notable call has come from the business world regarding the minimum wage increase. Şeyhmus Akbaş, the Chairman of the Board of the Diyarbakır Industrialists and Business People Association, stated that the increase should not be solely left to employers and outlined two different demands from the employers.
The process of determining the new minimum wage, which directly concerns 7 million employees and indirectly affects the entire society, is ongoing. The Minimum Wage Determination Commission held its second meeting yesterday. While no figures have been brought to the agenda yet, a call has come from the business world regarding the minimum wage increase and state supports.
"NOT JUST A WAGE DETERMINATION"
Şeyhmus Akbaş, Chairman of the Diyarbakır Association of Industrialists and Business People (DİSİDER), stated that the process of determining the minimum wage for 2026 is not just a wage determination, but also a vital issue that directly affects social balance, labor peace, and the sustainability of production.
EMPHASIS ON EMPLOYMENT LOSS AND INFORMALITY
Akbaş stated, "Protecting the purchasing power of our employees against rising living costs is one of the fundamental requirements of social justice. The minimum wage should aim for a level where a worker can live with dignity along with their family. This approach is an indispensable element of social peace and labor harmony. On the other hand, the business world is under serious pressure due to high costs, difficulties in accessing financing, and increases in energy and raw material prices. The burden of minimum wage increases alone becoming a heavy load on employers makes it difficult for businesses to survive; it can pave the way for employment loss and informality," he said.
CALL FOR GOVERNMENT SUPPORT
Akbaş emphasized that when determining the minimum wage, the basic needs and living standards of employees, the payment capacity and competitive conditions of businesses, inflation, and economic growth data should be evaluated together and from a holistic perspective, stating, "With our belief that our government will not remain indifferent to this process; it is of great importance to reduce the tax and insurance premium burdens on the minimum wage, and for the state to provide stronger support in this process. Sharing wage increases not solely as a burden on employers, but with public support, will offer a permanent solution that both protects employees and sustains employment."