An impending deal between the Finance Ministry and the national trade union center is expected to raise the minimum wage in the country.
The agreement will see the minimum wage rise from NIS 5,300 ($1,690) per month to NIS 6,000 ($1,910) by 2026, increasing by NIS 700 ($220) over five years, with the first hike of NIS 100 ($30) expected by next April.
No changes to salaries are expected in the public sector in 2022.
While this increase is good news for employees, it is still below the minimum wage of NIS 40 ($12.75) per hour that many had hoped for, corresponding to a minimum wage of around NIS 7,280 ($2,320) per month.
The agreement will also entitle employees to a minimum of 13 or 14 days of vacation per year, instead of the current minimum of 12. In return, the number of weekly working hours will not be reduced.
Public sector workers will also be allowed to work from home once a week, as long as their job requirements allow.
This reform, which should be finalized in the coming week, will be the first of its kind since 1984.
“We will continue to work for the benefit of a package deal that will bring real improvement... with concern only for the good of the Israeli economy,” Manufacturers’ Association president Dr. Ron Tomer said.