Ministry of Labor Announces Minimum Wage Increase Despite Employer Resistance

The Ministry of Labor has successfully reached an agreement with the trade unions CCOO and UGT to increase the minimum interprofessional wage (SMI) by €31 in 2026, bringing it to €1,221 per month for fourteen payments. This increase will take effect retroactively from January 1, 2026. However, the announcement has been marred by the absence of the employers' associations, CEOE and Cepyme, from the agreement. Joaquín Pérez Rey, the Secretary of State for Labor, expressed disappointment that these associations did not join the agreement. He emphasized the extensive negotiations that had taken place, stating, "We have negotiated tirelessly; we have given our all. We have sought proposals and counterproposals to include CEOE and Cepyme in this social dialogue agreement, but it has not been possible." The agreement, which is aimed at providing support to workers amid rising living costs, highlights the ongoing challenges in achieving consensus between labor unions and employer groups in Spain. The Ministry of Labor reiterated its commitment to improving working conditions and supporting the most affected sectors despite the lack of employer support. This decision marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to enhance wage standards across the country, but the absence of widespread consensus raises questions about the future of labor negotiations in Spain. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2