Hungary minimum wage hike for 2027 faces potential revision

The planned 14 percent minimum wage increase for 2027 in Hungary is facing potential revision due to shifting economic conditions. Employers, represented by the National Association of Entrepreneurs and Employers (VOSZ), argue that the original three-year wage agreement was based on higher economic growth projections and different inflation expectations than what is currently anticipated.

László Perlusz, Secretary General of VOSZ, stated that because economic performance is expected to be weaker than previously calculated, a single-digit increase for both the minimum wage and the guaranteed minimum wage may be more realistic. This follows a previous adjustment where the planned 13 percent increase for 2026 was revised down to 11 percent.

In contrast, labor representatives are seeking higher increases. Róbert Zlati, President of the Hungarian Trade Union Confederation, argued that even a 14 percent increase would be insufficient to ensure the minimum wage reaches 50 percent of the gross average wage. These negotiations are particularly sensitive as Eurostat data indicates that Hungary currently has the fourth lowest minimum wage in the European Union.