German customs data revealed widespread breaches of minimum wage regulations in 2025.
-
The Financial Control unit against illegal work carried out 25,765 inspections.
-
6,121 cases led to proceedings over suspected violations.
-
Left Party MP Jim Engle noted violations were found in about 25% of inspections.
-
Around 2,500 cases involved the hospitality sector.
-
More than 500 cases were recorded in transport, construction, and hairdressing/beauty salons.
-
Violations also occurred in taxi services, beverage shops, and security companies.
-
The minimum wage rose in January 2025 from €12.82 to €13.90 per hour.
-
Federal statistics showed 4.8 million jobs were affected.
-
Estimates suggest up to 2.5 million people are deprived of the legal minimum wage.
Sources – Agencies
