The French government will move the increase of the minimum wage from January to December 2026 against the backdrop of protests over the rising cost of living. The payment will increase by 1.6%, however, trade unions believe this is insufficient and are calling for new actions. France 24 reports.
Minimum wage in France: how much will be paid from December 2026
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced the decision after negotiations with trade unions and business representatives. Usually, minimum wage in France is reviewed from January 1, taking inflation into account. This time, the increase will happen one month earlier.
According to Labour Minister Jean-Pierre Farandou, the monthly minimum wage will be 1502 euros after deductions. This is approximately 24 euros more than the current level. The previous increase took place in June, when due to inflation the amount was raised by 35 euros.
For workers, the early review means one additional month with higher pay. However, the government did not announce a separate bonus beyond the planned 1.6%: the timing of the increase changed primarily.
French trade unions: why the increase did not stop protests
The largest French union CFDT demanded to increase the minimum wage by 100 euros. The left-wing union CGT insisted on an increase of 10%, or approximately 150 euros per month. Both demands significantly exceed the 24 euros proposed by the government.
CFDT leader Marilys Léon called the decision insufficient. CGT leader Sophie Binet characterized the increase as crumbs and called for new protests on November 17. Earlier, mass actions in France were already accompanied by demands to raise salaries.
The wave of discontent began in September with protests over inadequate school funding. Subsequently, claims regarding the cost of living, the state of public services, and the political situation were added to educational issues. In October, riots occurred in several major cities.
According to data provided by France 24, in 2024 about 12.7% of workers in France received minimum or close to minimum wage. Thus, even a small review affects a significant number of people and the costs for employers. At the same time, the national debt restricts the financial capabilities of the government.
For comparison, salaries in European countries it is important to distinguish between minimum and average pay, as well as amounts before and after deductions. The announced 1502 euros for France refers specifically to the net minimum monthly payment.