Finance Minister Siniša Mali announced on Saturday a significant increase in Serbia’s minimum wage, effective from October 1 this year.
Mali described the news as “the best and biggest,” highlighting that the minimum wage will rise to 500 euros starting in October. Furthermore, another increase is planned for January 1, 2026, raising the minimum wage to 550 euros.
So far this year, the minimum wage has already increased by 13.7 percent, reaching 457 euros. This milestone marked the first time the minimum wage was aligned with the minimum consumer basket, fulfilling a long-standing demand from trade unions.
Mali emphasized that the current government prioritizes improving citizens’ living standards, and raising the minimum wage plays a key role in this effort. He pointed out that the minimum wage influences not only low-income earners but also impacts the average wage levels across Serbia.
During a recent Social and Economic Council meeting with union representatives, Mali confirmed that the minimum wage would increase by 9.4 percent in October and by an additional 10.1 percent in January next year. This cumulative 37 percent rise over a year is unprecedented in Serbia.
Considering inflation rates hovering around 3.5 to 4 percent, Mali noted that such a substantial increase demonstrates a strong commitment by the government and the President of the Republic to support workers and boost the country’s economy.
