Mexico: 11.9 million formal workers lack dignified wages

A report by Acción Ciudadana Frente a la Pobreza (ACP) reveals that 11.9 million formal workers in Mexico, representing 52% of those registered with the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS), do not earn a 'dignified wage'.

The report, titled 'Termómetro Salarial 2026', establishes a dignified wage threshold at 14,400 pesos per month. This amount is calculated to cover a basic basket of life necessities, including food, housing, health, education, and leisure, moving beyond mere survival.

While the report notes a significant decrease in workers living in poverty—dropping from 8.6 million (40% of IMSS affiliates) three years ago to 407,000 (2%) currently—it highlights persistent wage gaps. Specifically, 85% of workers in the cleaning, security, and restaurant industries lack a dignified wage. The sectors with the highest absolute number of workers below this threshold are professional and technical services (1.3 million) and construction (969,000).