The Belgian wage norm law restricts salary increases to no more than the index this year and next. However, on 2025-05-27 23:10:00, Minister of Work David Clarinval signaled some flexibility for extra purchasing power, potentially through bonuses or enhanced meal vouchers. Social partners are expected to present their proposal by 7 June.
- Lonen mogen dit jaar niet boven index stijgen
- Clarinval opent ruimte voor bonussen, maaltijdcheques
- ACV berekent loonmarge van 0,5 tot 3 procent
- Vakbond bekritiseert regering voor arbeidsduurplannen
- ACV vraagt vermijden onnodige overheidsuitgaven
- Werkloosheidsuitkeringen bevriezen tot jobaanbod duidelijk is
ACV union leader Ann Vermorgen addressed this during Rerum Novarum, highlighting that lower inflation and additional business tax relief create a wage margin of about half a percent for boosting purchasing power. Yet, the union argues that excluding so-called “cheating software” like wage subsidies and social security reductions, the real margin could be as high as 3 percent.
So, how can Belgian workers truly benefit from this wage margin? And will the government act on these concerns? The upcoming weeks are crucial for negotiations and decisions that could impact workers’ incomes significantly.
What does this mean for Belgium’s workforce? The debate raises important questions about fairness and government priorities. Key points include:
- The government’s plan to annualize working hours risks reducing overtime pay and work-hour certainty.
- ACV urges cutting unnecessary expenses like first-hire wage subsidies and innovation tax credits.
- Calls for freezing unemployment benefit time limits until promised job offers become clear.
- Pressure mounts for a fiscal reform to better support social security and workers.
As discussions continue, Belgian workers and employers should stay informed and engaged. Will the social partners deliver a fair proposal by June 7? Only time will tell if these measures will truly enhance purchasing power and job stability in Belgium.
