22.11.2025 10:45
While preparations for the minimum wage in Turkey for 2026 are ongoing, it is expected that the Minimum Wage Determination Commission, which will convene in December, will evaluate wage increase options ranging from 20% to over 30%. Currently, the net minimum wage is 22,104 TL, and the figures on the table range between 26,000 TL and 29,000 TL.
The process for the minimum wage to be implemented in 2026 officially begins. The current net minimum wage of 22,104 TL will be determined in December through discussions on how much it will be increased in the new year. Based on the economic outlook, inflation expectations, and the Central Bank's year-end projections, there are various increase options on the table ranging from 20% to nearly 33%.
COMMISSION MEETING IN DECEMBER
The Minimum Wage Determination Commission consists of 15 members representing workers, employers, and the government. Minister of Labor and Social Security Vedat Işıkhan stated that the commission will come together in December, saying, "We aim for a level that the parties will agree upon." The commission is expected to start its first meeting in the first week of December and hold at least two more meetings to announce the new minimum wage before the end of the year.
INFLATION DATA WILL BE DECISIVE
The Central Bank's latest inflation report estimates the year-end CPI to be in the range of 31-33%. This rate strengthens the workers' demand that "the minimum wage should be increased at least as much as the actual inflation." However, last year, the targeted inflation was taken into account instead of the actual inflation when determining the increase. It is assessed that a similar approach is on the agenda this year as well. The economic management aims for an inflation target of 13-19% for 2026.
NUMBERS ON THE TABLE
Different increase scenarios emerge in light of economic indicators:
- 20% increase: Net minimum wage ~ 26,500 TL
- 25% increase: Net minimum wage ~ 27,600 TL
- 30% increase: Net minimum wage ~ 28,700 TL
- Close to 33% increase: Net minimum wage ~ 29,000 TL
This range is considered a critical point for the balance between the cost burden on employers and the purchasing power of employees.
OTHER ITEMS WILL ALSO BE UPDATED
With the new minimum wage, gross figures, social security premiums, employer costs, and tax items will also be reorganized. Employers are requesting an increase in state support to alleviate the cost burden, while worker representatives emphasize that the wage should "provide a living standard worthy of human dignity" in light of rising living costs.
WHEN WILL THE DECISION BE ANNOUNCED?
After the discussions the commission will hold in December, the decision is expected to be announced to the public in the last week of December. The new minimum wage will be effective as of January 1, 2026.