Spanish unions demand immediate minimum wage increase

Spanish labor unions CCOO and UGT are calling for an immediate revision of the minimum wage (SMI) to protect workers' purchasing power. The demand follows July inflation data showing a year-on-year increase of 3.6%.

Currently, the SMI stands at 1,221 euros per month across 14 payments. CCOO representative Carmen Vidal argued that the rise in prices, particularly regarding housing and basic goods, makes an urgent adjustment necessary to prevent workers from falling into poverty while corporate margins remain at historic highs.

UGT has requested the immediate convening of the social dialogue table, citing provisions in the Workers' Statute that allow for a SMI review every six months if inflation forecasts fail. The union noted that the previously agreed 3.1% increase for 2026 may be insufficient given the current inflationary pressures from electricity and fuel.