New bargaining on 2027 minimum wage: UGT wants 1,000 euros, current agreement is 970 euros

New bargaining has begun in Portugal for the national minimum wage to be implemented in 2027. While the current social reconciliation agreement foresees a gross monthly minimum wage of 970 euros for next year, the UGT wants the figure to be increased to 1,000 euros.

CGTP, on the other hand, demands a stronger increase not only in the minimum wage but also in wages in general.

The government states that it has not included changing the 970 euro target on its agenda for now, but social reconciliation agreements can be re-evaluated with the agreement of the parties.

There is 970 euros in the current road map

In Portugal, the national minimum wage increased to 920 euros gross monthly in 2026.

According to the road map in the income and competition agreement previously signed between the government and social partners, the reference figure for 2027 is 970 euros.

This means an increase of 50 euros per month compared to the current agreement.

However, unions want the figure to be re-evaluated due to economic conditions and the increase in the cost of living.

UGT: It should be 1,000 euros

UGT advocates increasing the minimum wage to 1,000 euros in 2027.

If this happens, the monthly gross increase will be 80 euros compared to 920 euros in 2026.

CGTP, on the other hand, goes further and argues that a general “choque salarial”, that is, a strong wage increase, is needed.

CGTP had previously raised the demand for a national minimum wage of 1,100 euros from the beginning of 2027.

What does the government say?

Work, Solidarity and Social Minister of Security Maria do Rosário Palma Ramalho said that the government is not closed to re-evaluating the agreements reached under Concertação Social.

However, the minister also emphasized that changing the current target of 970 euros is not currently on the government's agenda.

Employers' organizations, on the other hand, are cautious about higher mandatory wage increases, noting that economic growth is not in a strong rebound period.

1,000 euros has not been finalized

Here is the most important distinction for employees.

The 2027 minimum wage has not yet been decided at 1,000 euros.

The reference in the current social agreement is 970 euros. UGT's demand for 1,000 euros is a new negotiating position; CGTP's higher demand is also a union proposal.

The final figure will be determined after discussions between the government and social partners.

Resources

Diário de Notícias — 16 September 2026

https://www.dn.pt/sociedade/ugt-quer-salrio-mnimo-nos-1000-euros-em-2027-e-cgtp-pede-choque-salarial

Dinheiro Vivo — September 16, 2026

https://dinheirovivo.dn.pt/economia/aumentos-salariais-em-2027-travam-nos-3