KNSB calls for delay in 2027 minimum wage determination

The Confederation of Independent Trade Unions (KNSB) is calling for a delay in determining the minimum wage for 2027, pending a ruling from the Constitutional Court regarding changes to the Labor Code. KNSB leadership noted that while the current mechanism is frozen, it has not been officially canceled.

A new methodology is being developed that will incorporate the cost of living as a key metric. The National Statistical Institute (NSI) is expected to establish a methodology and provide initial calculations by mid-next year. Under the previous formula, the minimum wage could reach approximately 690.44 to 692 euros, whereas the new mechanism sets a maximum ceiling of 672.80 euros.

KNSB President Plamen Dimitrov emphasized that the Commission for Protection of Competition (CPC) could act as a ‘nuclear bomb’ on the market by imposing sanctions of up to 10% of annual turnover to discipline retailers and curb unfair price increases in sectors such as food, dairy, and medicine. Additionally, the union is advocating for pension reforms and a clearer national income policy within the upcoming budget to prevent inflation from eroding nominal wage growth.