Government promises 600 euro minimum wage; unions seek guarantees amid inflation fears

Serbia's government has announced plans to increase the minimum wage to 600 euros starting January 1, representing a 50 euro rise from the current rate. Finance Minister Siniša Mali stated that another 50 euro increase is planned for late 2027, emphasizing the government's commitment to supporting vulnerable populations.

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It is not the same if it will be in April or May next year, or if it will be in December. We do not have clear indicators of when this increase will occur.

However, trade unions expressed skepticism during a session of the Social-Economic Council, where consensus on the exact amount was not reached. Union representatives are seeking concrete, written guarantees for the planned increases, particularly regarding the timing. They argue that a decision outlining both increases upfront would provide greater certainty.

"It is not the same if it will be in April or May next year, or if it will be in December," said Čedanka Andrić, president of the United Industry Trade Unions "Nezavisnost." Zoran Mihajlović, president of the Association of Independent Trade Unions of Serbia, added, "We do not have clear indicators of when this increase will occur."

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We have money, but we always show care for those who need it most, for the most vulnerable categories of the population, and we will continue to do so.

Minister Mali assured that the increases are tied to the "Serbia 2027" development plan and are scheduled for the end of 2027. He appealed for trust, stating that the government has fulfilled all its previous promises. He also noted that the minimum wage increase aims to reach 117% coverage of the minimum consumer basket, which is calculated for a three-person household and covers essential living expenses.

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Very clearly we said that the increase in the minimum wage is tied to 'Serbia 2027' and in none of my statements have you heard that it is tied to the year 2027, but to the end of the year 2027. So I understand the position of the unions that they do not believe we will do it, and on the other hand, every promise we have made, we have fulfilled.