20.07.2026 13:21
The government is conducting a study on a "sectoral and regional minimum wage" model that takes into account the cost structures of different sectors and economic conditions across provinces. While no final decision has been made yet, the potential regulation aims to protect workers' rights, increase employment, and ensure the sustainability of production. As part of the studies, different minimum wage models implemented in countries such as Canada, Japan, Germany, and the USA are also being examined.
Institutions related to economic management continue their work on a new model that could serve as an alternative to the current minimum wage system. During the preparation process, a sectoral and regional minimum wage application is being evaluated, taking into account labor costs across different sectors and living expenses between cities.
Key objectives of the study include preserving workers' purchasing power, increasing employment, and supporting businesses' competitiveness. Particularly for sectors with high labor costs and regions with varying living costs, different implementation options are being discussed.
SOCIAL PARTNERS WILL BE CONSULTED
According to a report by Takvim, officials state that the opinions of worker and employer representatives will be sought before any potential regulation is implemented. The goal is to create a balanced model that prevents loss of rights for employees and enables employers to sustain production activities.
During the preparation process, not only economic data from Turkey but also minimum wage systems applied in different countries are being examined in detail.
FINAL DECISION TO BE MADE AFTER STUDIES
Once the ongoing analyses are completed, the final decision will be made by economic management in line with evaluations from the Ministry of Labor and Social Security and relevant institutions.
If the regulation is implemented, its scope, transition process, and oversight mechanisms will be determined in detail. Officials emphasize that no decisions have been finalized at this stage, and the aim of the studies is to identify the most suitable model to ensure a lasting balance between production, employment, and worker welfare.
CANADA: EACH PROVINCE HAS DIFFERENT WAGES
In Canada, the minimum wage is determined by each province. Different minimum wage rates apply in provinces such as Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta.
In Japan, the minimum wage is set separately according to the economic conditions of the country's 47 administrative divisions. The capital Tokyo ranks among the regions with the highest minimum wage, while lower wages are applied in rural areas.
In China, provinces and major cities can set different minimum wages based on their own economic conditions. In India, different wage applications exist not only across states but also in some specific sectors.
EUROPE: SECTORAL MODEL STANDS OUT
In Europe, sectoral wage applications are prominent in many countries.
In Germany, a national legal minimum wage is applied, while collective bargaining agreements allow for higher wages in certain sectors.
Italy does not have a national legal minimum wage. Wages are largely determined by sector-based collective bargaining agreements.
Similarly, in Austria, wages are shaped by collective agreements according to sectors, while in Belgium, a national minimum wage exists alongside higher wage levels in many sectors.
AMERICA: DUAL SYSTEM IN PLACE
In Mexico, the country is divided into different wage zones. Particularly in border regions, a higher minimum wage is applied compared to other areas.
In the United States, the federal minimum wage remains valid, while states and some cities can set higher minimum wages based on their own economic conditions. Different wage applications also exist in certain sectors.