Turkey Minimum Wages

The gross minimum monthly wage in Turkey increased by 27% year-on-year to 33,030 Turkish lira (28,075 Turkish lira net, or $655) in 2026. The hike, broadly aligned with inflation forecasts, reflects the government’s commitment to containing price growth while supporting household incomes. Over a third of Turkey’s workforce earns the minimum wage, which also influences private-sector salary negotiations. The increase is politically sensitive, with opposition parties and labor groups, such as Turk-Is, criticizing the structure and past erosion from high inflation. Since 2023, authorities have sought to curb domestic demand and inflation through tighter credit and higher borrowing costs, while allowing wage growth in line with projected price rises. Inflation, though reduced from recent peaks of 75%, remains far above the central bank’s 5% target, with year-end 2025 expected around 31% and a 16% target for 2026.