Egypt Daily News – The National Wages Council decided to raise the minimum wage in the private sector, to now reach 7,000 pounds as of March 2025.
The minimum wage was gradually raised since its approval for the first time in January 2022, to keep pace with the continuous economic changes, as the minimum began with a value of 2400 pounds, then it rose to 2700 pounds in January 2023, then to 3000 pounds in July 2023, and this was followed by an increase to 3500 pounds In January 2024, then 6000 pounds in May 2024.
This came in accordance with the definition of the wage stipulated in Clause (C) of Article No. (1) of the Labor Law, including the share of the employer in social insurance contributions.
The minimum wage is a world -recognized tool to protect low -income workers. According to the Global Wage Report 2020-2021 issued by the International Labor Organization, 90% of the organization’s member states adopt a minimum wage.
Dr. Rania Al -Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, headed the meeting of the National Council for wages to discuss the minimum wage in the private sector, in light of the directives of President Abdel Fattah El -Sisi to enhance social justice and improve the standard of living of citizens.
She, stressed that raising the minimum wage comes within the keenness to respond to the current economic developments, in a way that enhances economic and social stability, adding that this is consistent with international standards, as the International Labor Organization emphasizes the need to review the minimum wage on a periodic basis, to protect the purchasing power of families, and to absorb gradual economic changes.
Mr. Mohamed Gibran, Minister of Labor, stressed that this decision comes in line with the directives of President Abdel Fattah El -Sisi, President of the Republic, towards promoting social protection and improving the standard of living of workers, noting that the periodic allowance with a minimum of 250 pounds contributes to improving the worker’s income and guarantee His rights in light of economic changes.
