Minimum wage debate intensifies

The French government has not ruled out a temporary increase in the minimum wage, which is currently set at 1,477.93 euros net, but has warned that such a move could risk employment and inflation. This issue is a central demand of the interprofessional strike and demonstration planned for November 5.

Historical context of wage adjustments

The last temporary increase in the minimum wage occurred in July 2012, following the election of President François Hollande. Unlike other wages, the minimum wage is automatically adjusted every January 1 based on inflation, and during the year if inflation exceeds 2%.

CFDT calls for 100 euro increase

The CFDT union, which has historically opposed temporary minimum wage increases, has recently called for a 100 euro net increase, representing a 6.8% rise. Its general secretary, Marylise Léon, stated that such an increase would require a re-examination of all classification grids and coefficients in collective agreements.

Other unions demand higher increases

The CGT union is demanding an immediate increase of 10% to bring the minimum wage to 2,053.72 euros gross, with a further increase to 2,200 euros. It also wants the return of wage indexing to prices. FO seeks to index the minimum wage at 80% of the median wage, which was 2,238 euros net in the private sector in 2025, according to Insee.

CFTC requests smaller temporary increase

The CFTC union’s Cyril Chabanier has requested a temporary increase of 0.6%, similar to the one under Hollande, in addition to the automatic 1% increase scheduled for January 1. This increase could be anticipated on November 1 or December 1.

Union demands include public aid changes

Union demands also include the removal of public aid eligibility for companies with wage scales starting below the minimum wage. The CGT estimates that 122 out of 200 sectors are affected by this issue.

Government cautious about significant increases

Labor Minister Jean-Pierre Farandou has not ruled out a temporary increase but cautions against significant increases, citing potential job losses and inflationary pressures. He warned that a 150 euro increase could eliminate 250,000 jobs, noting that service companies could pass on wage increases to prices.

Medef warns of economic risks

The Medef business lobby also warns against a "shock on work" from combining a temporary minimum wage increase with planned reductions in employer contribution exemptions in the 2027 social security budget.