The SMEs in Romania propose freezing the minimum wage in the country for the year 2026, considering the economic difficulties faced by entrepreneurs.

The President of SMEs Romania, Florin Jianu, stated that the organization proposes freezing the minimum wage in the country for the year 2026, as 70% of entrepreneurs do not have the capacity to increase it. In the last three years, the minimum wage has increased steadily, exceeding the inflation rate, but the current economic difficulties, including declines in the construction and trade sectors, negatively affect SMEs. A survey conducted by SMEs Romania shows that the majority of entrepreneurs believe that the minimum wage should be frozen, and 54% estimate a moderate increase to 4,250 lei in 2027. Jianu emphasized that an increase in the minimum wage could lead to rising prices and decreased competitiveness, and 24% of entrepreneurs might carry out layoffs. As an alternative solution, 85% of entrepreneurs suggest reducing payroll taxes.