Swiss trade unions demand 2.5% wage increase for 2027

The Swiss Federation of Trade Unions (SGB) is calling for general wage increases of 2.5 percent for 2027 to defend consumer purchasing power. Union leaders argue that wage development has been weak over the last decade, failing to keep pace with rising productivity.

SGB economist David Gallusser noted that if average wages had grown in line with productivity over the last decade, monthly salaries would be approximately 500 Swiss francs higher today. The unions highlight a growing ‘purchasing power crisis’ driven by accumulated inflation and steadily rising health insurance premiums.

With average annual health insurance premiums for adults reaching 5,600 Swiss francs, more than half of employees find that a single month's salary is insufficient to cover the cost. The SGB emphasizes that higher wages are necessary to offset these rising living costs and ensure workers benefit from the improving economic situation.