The Polish furniture industry has expressed concerns over plans to raise the minimum wage to 4,666 PLN next year. The National Chamber of Furniture Producers (OIGPM) alerted Premier Donald Tusk that this increase could further diminish the competitiveness of Polish companies, which are vital to the national export economy.
Photo: Dreamstime.
The furniture sector, once a leading exporter in Europe, is facing challenges due to rising production costs from geopolitical instability and previous minimum wage hikes, which have increased by 40% in the last two years. The chamber warns that additional increases will worsen the situation for businesses, which have already seen a significant rise in personnel costs.
Despite the challenges, the industry managed to export products worth over 62 billion PLN in 2023, contributing positively to Poland's balance of payments. However, ongoing economic pressures have led to the closure of approximately 800 furniture companies and the loss of 20,000 jobs over the past two years.
OIGPM emphasises the need for stable regulations to maintain international competitiveness and protect jobs. They urge the government to reconsider the planned wage increase, arguing that the furniture industry's struggles are reflective of broader economic challenges and require immediate attention. Vice President Piotr Wójcik stated that preserving the current minimum wage would help stabilize the industry amid declining orders and economic uncertainty.
Source: www.biznes.meble.pl