The national minimum wage will increase again next year, rising to 870 euros per month from January 1st. This increase, which represents an increase of 50 euros compared to the current value of 820 euros, was formalized through the diploma published in the Official Gazette of the Union, consolidating the trajectory of salary appreciation assumed by the Government within the scope of the income and economic growth agreement for 2025- 2028.
An increase of 6.1% that exceeds previous expectations
As stated in the diploma, “this decree-law determines the increase in the value of the RMMG [retribuição mínima mensal garantida] to 870.00 euros, with effect from January 1, 2025”. This new value reflects an increase of 6.1% in relation to the minimum wage currently in force and exceeds the amount initially projected in the previous income agreement, which predicted 855 euros for 2025.
According to the Government, this increase is an essential step to “retain talent and qualified human capital in Portugal”, while at the same time reinforcing the productivity and competitiveness of the national economy, aligning it with its European partners.
An ambitious target: 1,020 euros in 2028
The increase in the minimum wage to R$870 is part of a long-term strategy defined in the salary appreciation agreement signed by the Executive, the business confederations and the UGT. This plan establishes annual increases of 50 euros until 2028, predicting that the minimum wage will reach 920 euros in 2026, 970 euros in 2027 and, finally, 1,020 euros in 2028.
Economic and social impact
This salary increase is seen by the Executive as a central tool to promote social justice and reduce economic inequalities, without neglecting the impact on business. The objective is to ensure that the increase in the minimum wage translates into a balance between better conditions for workers and sustainability for companies.
At the same time, the hope is that this measure will contribute to alleviating phenomena such as the flight of talent abroad, encouraging young people to remain in the country and develop their careers in the national territory.
With this increase, Portugal continues on the path to bring minimum incomes closer to European standards, consolidating its strategy of sustained economic growth. For workers, 2025 will be another year marked by an improvement in purchasing power and the appreciation of work.
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