Greek Labor Minister Giannis Panagiotou confirmed that the national minimum wage is set for two revisions before 2028. The first revision, expected to be decreed in December 2025 and take effect in January 2026, marks a definitive step following the parliamentary Economic Committee’s review of the Ministry of Labor’s 2026 budget. A second revision is anticipated in December 2027, with its implementation planned for 2028.
Economic Outlook And Advisory Process
The minister stated unequivocally that an increase in the minimum wage is guaranteed from January 2026. Although details regarding the scale of the adjustment remain forthcoming pending further consultations with the advisory committee, the plan reflects optimism about the positive trajectory of the national economy. Notably, approximately 55,000 workers who receive the minimum wage are expected to benefit.
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European Directive Compliance And Wage Adequacy
In addition to establishing the timeline for wage increases, the minister emphasized steps toward complying with the European directive on wage adequacy, recently upheld by the European Court of Justice. Social partners will soon be invited to the inaugural meeting of the advisory committee dedicated to revising the minimum wage, underscoring the collaborative approach taken in these adjustments.
Legislative Measures And Pension Reform
Looking ahead, the first quarter of 2026 is set to witness the submission of an action plan on wage adequacy to the European Commission, followed by the introduction of legislation in Parliament to transpose the directive. Additionally, considerations such as the treatment of arrears for the minimum wage will cover the two preceding years cumulatively. In a related move, the minister assured that drafts for pension reform will be submitted later this year, with the reforms expected to be implemented by 2027.
