The Moroccan government is committing a total of 49.7 billion dirhams (MMDH) toward social dialogue measures through the end of 2026 and the beginning of 2027. Younes Sekkouri, the Minister of Economic Inclusion, Small Business, Employment, and Skills, stated that this financial effort is specifically designed to combat social disparities and support purchasing power.
Building Trust Through Social Dialogue
Speaking in response to oral questions at the Chamber of Representatives, Minister Sekkouri emphasized that social dialogue is more than just budgets and agreements. He described it as the establishment of a relationship of trust between the government, social partners, and employers, including those representing the agricultural sector.
Significant Wage Adjustments
The Minister detailed a series of wage increases implemented during the current government mandate. The guaranteed interprofessional minimum wage (SMIG) rose from 14.81 dirhams per hour to 17.9 dirhams, increasing net monthly salaries from approximately 2,800 to 3,400 dirhams.
Agricultural workers have also seen gains, with the minimum wage for agricultural activities (SMAG) increasing from under 1,900 dirhams to 2,400 dirhams as of this April. The government implemented a general salary increase of 1,000 dirhams during a difficult economic period after such a move proved impossible in 2023.
Sector-Specific and Private Sector Gains
Targeted increases have also been applied to specific sectors, most notably education. Approximately 325,000 civil servants in this sector received raises ranging from 1,500 dirhams for those at the start of their careers to 5,000 dirhams for those at the end of their professional paths.
The private sector has similarly benefited through a revision of income tax, which has resulted in an average monthly income increase of about 400 dirhams for employees. These measures were accompanied by broader reforms to pensions and old-age benefits.
Future Outlook
As the government works toward the 2026 and 2027 financial targets, further adjustments to social benefits may occur. The administration could continue to refine sector-specific agreements to address remaining disparities.
Future steps may include the monitoring of the 1,320-day pension threshold to ensure workers can effectively recover contributions if they do not meet the new requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total cost of the social dialogue measures?
The total cost is expected to reach 49.7 billion dirhams by the end of 2026 and the start of 2027.
How has the SMIG changed since the start of the government mandate?
The SMIG increased from 14.81 dirhams per hour to 17.9 dirhams, which raised net salaries from around 2,800 to 3,400 dirhams.
What benefits were provided to education sector employees?
About 325,000 officials received salary increases ranging from 1,500 dirhams at the start of their career to 5,000 dirhams at the end of their career.
Do you believe that focusing on “trust” between institutions is as important as the financial value of wage increases?
