ILO to assist Ecuador in six-month review of sectoral minimum wages
ILO technical teams will work with Ecuador's labour ministry to analyze sectoral minimum wages, occupational structures and wage data over six months.
The story in focus
The ILO will work with Ecuador's Ministry of Labour and Human Development and social partners for six months to build an evidence base for reviewing sectoral minimum wages, occupational structures and economic activity classifications, following a technical mission to Quito from 5 to 8 October 2026.
- An ILO technical mission visited Quito from 5 to 8 October 2026 at Ecuador's request.
- Ecuador combines a national Unified Basic Wage with rates set by 21 sectoral commissions.
- Over six months, ILO teams will analyze the system's architecture, employment structures and wage data.
What the review covers
Ecuador's labour market has changed significantly, with shifting occupations and skills, wide differences across sectors and enterprises, and high informality. The review will assess how well existing sectoral and occupational structures reflect current realities and improve alignment between regulatory classifications and statistical information.
Ecuador combines a national Unified Basic Wage (SBU) with minimum wage rates set by 21 sectoral commissions, including piece-rate systems in some sectors. The Constitution recognizes a dignified wage (salario digno) covering at least workers' and families' basic needs. The review will examine how sectoral minimum wages relate to the SBU and to that principle.
Data and next steps
The mission met the Ministry of Labour and Human Development, the National Institute of Statistics and Censuses (INEC), the Ecuadorian Social Security Institute (IESS), the Central Bank of Ecuador, employers' and workers' representatives, selected sectoral commissions and the Inter-American Development Bank.
Participants identified statistical and administrative sources for the next phase, including the ENEMDU labour force survey and data held by the Ministry, INEC, IESS and the Central Bank. Further work will assess their quality and accessibility. Over six months, ILO teams will analyze the current architecture, examine employment and occupational structures, assess wage patterns and coverage and compliance information, and develop technical options. Results will feed subsequent discussions with employers and workers.
How long will the ILO work with Ecuador on the review?
The ILO will work with Ecuador's Ministry of Labour and Human Development and social partners over six months, following a technical mission to Quito held from 5 to 8 October 2026.
Sources & further reading
- ILO supports Ecuador in reviewing sectoral minimum wages and updating occupational structures ↗ilo.org
Help keep the record accurate. Send a correction.
