Numsa signs two-year wage deal with salary increases for pharma workers
The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) has signed a two-year wage agreement in the pharmaceutical sector
Image: Timothy Bernard Independent Newspapers
The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) has signed a two-year wage agreement in the pharmaceutical sector that will see more than 10,000 workers receiving above-inflation increases.
According to the union, the agreement is effective from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2027, and will be backdated to July 1 to ensure workers benefit immediately from the negotiated increases.
Wages will increase by 5.5 % from 1 July 2025 and by 6 % from January 2026. In the second year, the increases will follow the same pattern, with a 5.5 % rise from July 1 2026 and a further 6% increase from January 2027.
NUMSA also announced improved maternity leave benefits, saying leave has been extended from four to six months, adding that workers will now receive 75 % of their basic salary for the first four months, compared to the previous 45 % over six months.
"The agreement will be extended to non-party employers, ensuring broader protection for workers across the sector. This victory is not just a win at the bargaining table; it is a testament to NUMSA’s militant commitment to improving the lives of workers and their families," The union said.
The union added that this agreement reflects their resolution to expand our organising efforts beyond traditional sectors, and we are proud to see that vision materialise.
"We call on all workers in the pharmaceutical industry to join NUMSA in their numbers. We are not just a union, we are a sword and a spear for the working class, delivering real, material gains in the face of exploitation".
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za
IOL Business