Collective Bargaining Talks Commence for 50,000 Chemical Industry Workers

March 26, 2025 - Negotiations for collective agreements have officially begun for approximately 50,000 employees within Austria's chemical industry, marking the third sector to enter discussions during the ongoing spring wage negotiations that started on March 19.

The trade unions PRO-GE and GPA are advocating for significant increases in collective agreement (KV) wages and salaries that surpass the average inflation rate, with a focus on supporting lower-income workers. Union representatives emphasized the necessity for sustainable and noticeable pay increases to alleviate the financial pressures faced by employees due to rising costs of living.

In addition to wage adjustments, the unions are seeking the introduction of options that allow employees to convert monetary compensation into additional leisure time. They are also calling for enhanced allowances and bonuses, as well as increased salaries for apprentices that exceed the inflation rate.

The unions aim to simplify access to a sixth week of vacation and propose the introduction of a climate ticket for apprentices, which would promote more environmentally friendly transportation options. Furthermore, there is a push to expand health and preventive care offerings within workplaces to better support employee well-being.

The next round of negotiations is scheduled for April 9, with the new collective agreement expected to take effect on May 1.