Portugal has announced a significant increase in its minimum wage, set to rise to €870 per month in 2025. This decision, confirmed by the Minister of Labor, aims to improve the living standards of workers, although the new wage will still fall short compared to many other European Union countries.
The Portuguese government has committed to raising the minimum wage as part of its broader economic strategy. The increase to €870 per month is seen as a necessary step to address the cost of living and provide better financial security for workers. The government plans to implement annual increases of €50 until 2028, ultimately aiming for a minimum wage of €1,020.
Comparison with EU Counterparts
Despite the planned increases, Portugal’s minimum wage remains significantly lower than that of many other EU nations. Here’s a comparison of minimum wages across selected EU countries:
| Country | Minimum Wage (Monthly) |
|---|---|
| Luxembourg | €2,204 |
| Ireland | €1,840 |
| Netherlands | €1,829 |
| Belgium | €1,774 |
| Germany | €1,761 |
| France | €1,550 |
| Portugal | €820 (current) |
| €870 (2025) |
The planned increase in Portugal’s minimum wage marks a crucial step towards improving worker compensation and addressing economic disparities. However, as the government moves forward with these changes, it will be essential to monitor the broader economic impacts and ensure that the wage increases translate into real improvements in living standards for all workers.