In September 2026, collective bargaining in the Canary Islands has seen a modest improvement, with the average wage increase agreed upon in collective agreements reaching 3.07%. This figure places the region slightly above the national average of 3.05% for the first time. However, these gains are still inadequate to offset the average price increase of goods and services, which stands at 4.4% according to the latest inflation data.
The disparity is even more pronounced when compared to wage increases in other regions, such as Murcia and the Balearic Islands, where increases of 5.44% and 4.08% respectively are more aligned with the current inflationary period. These figures highlight the potential for reaching agreements that could better support social cohesion, ensure a fair distribution of wealth, and prevent the erosion of purchasing power for workers.
It is important to note that the reported average wage increase of 3.07% may mask the existence of collective agreements that have not achieved any wage improvements or that have increases below this average. Moreover, only approximately 132,500 workers benefit from this average wage increase, which is a small fraction of the total employed population in the Canary Islands.
As 2026 progresses, there is a growing emphasis on the need to adjust wages to reflect the real cost of living and to enhance the coverage rate of collective agreements. This issue will be further underscored by a general strike planned for 29 November, which aims to advocate for fair wages and reaffirm the essential role of trade unions in defending workers' rights and improving working conditions.
