Overview

• SPD leader Lars Klingbeil expressed confidence that the independent Minimum Wage Commission will implement the €15 minimum wage by 2026 under its new EU-aligned mandate.
• CSU leader Markus Söder also stated that the €15 target is achievable, emphasizing adherence to the coalition agreement and the commission's independence.
• The Minimum Wage Commission, which adjusts wages biennially, is now required to comply with the EU directive mandating minimum wages at 60% of median income.
• Employer associations warn that a steep increase to €15 could harm small and medium-sized businesses, leading to higher unemployment, insolvencies, and inflation.
• The current minimum wage stands at €12.82 as of January 2025, with the commission's next decision expected mid-year to determine further adjustments.