4% minimum wage increase approved: increments from 238 to 532 córdobas
These are the new salary amounts by sector, who they apply to, and when payment will begin.
TL;DR
- Nicaragua's minimum wage increased by 4% for the second consecutive year.
- Monthly increments range from 238 to 532.62 córdobas, varying by economic sector.
- The agricultural sector has the lowest minimum wage, while construction, financial services, and insurance have the highest.
- Special fiscal regime industries (free zones) will see a 6.7% increase as part of a five-year agreement.
- The new salary scale is effective from March 1st to February 28th, 2027, with retroactive application.
- Despite indicators like inflation (2.70%) and GDP growth (3-4%), the increase is seen as minimal.
- Around 325,000 workers are expected to receive the raise, excluding free zone workers.
- Salaries are still considered insufficient to cover the basic family basket cost (20,821.68 córdobas in December).