K. Hatzidakis made a new announcement regarding the increase in the minimum wage, effective from today (04.01.2023).
In more detail, Kostis Hatzidakis said: “With the new significant increase in the minimum wage, effective from today, minimum wage workers will see 3 additional net wages in their pockets, compared to 2019.
We found the minimum wage from SYRIZA at 650 euros and raised it to 780 euros. And official figures show it’s above the rise in inflation between 2019 and today: 15% inflation, 20% increase in the minimum wage. And in relation to the other countries of Europe, we are in 10th place among the 22 countries that have a minimum wage. And if we also take purchasing power into account, then we are in 13th place, that is, in the middle of the table.
We never claimed to solve all the problems of workers. But no one can dispute that the economy today has nothing to do with 2019. Greece is now the 2nd fastest growing in the EU. Unemployment has fallen from 17.5% in the summer of 2019 to around 11%. About 300,000 new jobs were created and average wages increased by 12.4% from 2019 to 2022. Investments increased greatly. And the recovery of the economy is estimated to continue this year.
Of course, all these are not facts. The country needs, after the elections, a stable government that will promote useful, for many, reforms. Our opponents cannot do that, because they cannot get rid of the populism of the left trees. Only a New Democracy government can ensure that growth continues, for all Greeks.”
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**Interview with Kostis Hatzidakis on Greece’s Minimum Wage Increase**
**Interviewer:** Good afternoon, Mr. Hatzidakis. Thank you for joining us today.
**Kostis Hatzidakis:** Good afternoon, and thank you for having me.
**Interviewer:** The recent announcement about increasing the minimum wage in Greece has drawn significant attention. Can you tell us what prompted this decision to raise the minimum wage to €780?
**Kostis Hatzidakis:** Certainly. This increase is part of our government’s commitment to enhancing workers’ quality of life and addressing the rising cost of living. We want to ensure that all citizens can afford basic necessities and have a decent standard of living.
**Interviewer:** Many people are curious about how this increase will impact the economy. What are your thoughts on that?
**Kostis Hatzidakis:** It’s a balancing act. While we believe that increasing the minimum wage will stimulate consumer spending and boost the economy, we also have to consider the potential impact on businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises. Our aim is to create a sustainable environment for growth.
**Interviewer:** How do you plan to monitor the effects of this wage increase in the coming months?
**Kostis Hatzidakis:** We will be closely evaluating various economic indicators, including unemployment rates and business performance. Continuous dialogue with both employees and employers will be essential to understand the real-world impacts of this change.
**Interviewer:** What message do you want to send to the workers of Greece with this increase?
**Kostis Hatzidakis:** I want to assure them that their hard work is valued and that the government is committed to improving their living conditions. This wage increase is a step towards a more equitable society where everyone can thrive.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Hatzidakis, for your insights. It will be interesting to see how this decision shapes the future of the Greek economy and its workers.
**Kostis Hatzidakis:** Thank you for having me. I’m optimistic about the changes ahead.
