Increase in the minimum wage in Peru: expectations and challenges in the face of uncertainty

The increase of the minimum wage in Peru is a topic that has kept the population on edge, especially those workers who depend on this base income to survive. In the midst of a complicated economic and social context, where inflation has eroded the purchasing power of the citizens, all eyes turn to the authorities in search of concrete answers and measures to alleviate the situation. President Dina Boluarte has taken important steps by announcing salary increases for nurses, midwives, and teachers in higher education, demonstrating a concern for improving the working conditions of certain sectors. However, the biggest expectation lies in the increase of the minimum wage, a measure that directly affects a large number of Peruvians who struggle every day to meet their basic needs. The Minister of Labor and Employment Promotion, Daniel Maurate, has emphasized the importance of following a technical and consensus-based process to evaluate the increase of the Minimum Vital Remuneration (RMV). The establishment of the National Labor Council is presented as the appropriate scenario to discuss and reach agreements that benefit both employers and workers, avoiding imbalances that could harm the economy and job creation. In this sense, Maurate has pointed out that the increase in the minimum wage could occur in the second half of the year, as long as economic conditions improve. The proposal of the Congress of the Republic to raise the salary to S/ 1,545 has sparked debate, but the need for consensus among the parties involved to avoid negative effects on micro and small businesses is emphasized. The Minister of Economy and Finance, José Arista, has highlighted the necessary prudence in addressing this issue, stating that it is essential to wait for economic indicators to improve before discussing a possible increase in the minimum wage. The context of economic recovery is key to making decisions that boost growth and labor stability in the country. On the other hand, the Ombudsman, Josué Gutiérrez, has emphasized the importance of evaluating the salary increase in the midst of a reality where inflation and loss of purchasing power affect the population. The need to ensure a decent wage that allows workers to cover their basic expenses is a crucial aspect in the discussion about the minimum wage in Peru. Amidst these statements and proposals, uncertainty persists among workers who eagerly await concrete news about a possible increase in the minimum wage. While dialogue and consensus are expected to prevail in this process, the urgency to improve the living conditions of the population demands accurate and effective decisions from the competent authorities. The official announcement of the increase in remuneration for healthcare professionals reflects the government's willingness to address the demands of certain sectors, but attention is focused on when and to what extent the long-awaited increase in the minimum wage in Peru will occur. In the meantime, the citizens remain attentive to the next steps taken in this important discussion that directly impacts the quality of life of thousands of Peruvians.