Unions refuse to sign the increase of the SMI during the electoral campaign and consider standing up to Díaz for the first time in seven years

Since Yolanda Díaz took office in January 2020, CCOO and UGT have supported minimum wage increases. However, they are now considering not backing her latest proposal due to tight deadlines coinciding with the electoral campaign. Díaz aims to raise the minimum wage before elections, bypassing traditional negotiation steps. Experts recommended a 4.9% increase, but Díaz announced a 5.3% rise instead. Unions are hesitant to sign an agreement during the campaign, fearing backlash and emphasizing their demand for a 7% increase. They also seek guarantees against wage absorption and tax exemptions for minimum wage earners. The CEOE has distanced itself from negotiations, criticizing Díaz for politicizing the issue before elections.