An Iranian newspaper reported on the increasing share of food expenses from the monthly salaries of workers, stating that a worker supporting a family of four must spend about 65% of their income to procure a basic basket of essential food items. The newspaper 'Donya-e-Eqtesad' noted that this figure was 58% last year and around 49% in 2021. A noteworthy point in this report is that with 65% of the salary consumed for food, only 35% remains for housing and other necessary living expenses. The newspaper 'Ham Mihan' also reported on December 26, stating that 'since 1980, the purchasing power of workers earning the minimum wage has decreased by more than 65% and has fallen to less than half.' It added that the real minimum wage for workers this year has reached its lowest level in the past 28 years. The news agency 'Tasnim' mentioned on December 20 that about 70% of workers' income is spent on rent, forcing them to take on second and third jobs to cover living costs. Despite all these reports, the government intends to keep the salary increase for next year below 20%. Accordingly, Davood Manzoor, head of the Planning and Budget Organization of the Islamic Republic, recently stated that a 25% or 30% wage increase would not be in the country's best interest and would lead to inflation. Meanwhile, the head of the Supreme Council of Labor Associations in Iran stated that 'even a 30% wage increase would still be lower than the inflation rate and would not meet people's expenses.' As the end of the year approaches, various segments of society, while focusing on political discussions surrounding budget approval and media conflicts among decision-making bodies, face challenges in securing the minimum essentials of life without a clear outlook ahead. Retired educators gathered in front of the Planning and Budget Organization in Tehran, highlighting the widening gap between government promises and economic realities; media reports indicate that officials speak of a 'different Iran.' A labor activist remarked that if the government behaves as it did last year, workers' representatives will not participate in the 'wage determination' meeting. A union official noted that the new year will start with rising prices for legumes, and a parliamentary representative reported ongoing issues with the supply of medicine and baby formula.
The Share of Food in Household Expenses; 65% of Workers' Salaries
A report reveals that Iranian workers are spending 65% of their salaries on food, leaving little for other necessities. Despite the rising cost of living and declining purchasing power, the government plans to limit wage increases to under 20%. This situation highlights the growing economic struggles faced by workers in Iran.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
A report indicates that Iranian workers are now spending 65% of their salaries on food, significantly limiting their ability to cover other living expenses. Despite this rising cost of living, the government plans to restrict wage increases to below 20%.
- The share of food expenses from workers' salaries has increased from 58% last year to 65% this year.
- The purchasing power of minimum wage workers has decreased by more than 65% since 1980.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Iran has been facing significant economic challenges, including high inflation and a declining currency, which have eroded the purchasing power of its citizens.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →
Translation confidence: 85%