Adedokun Waliyu 
Delcy Rodríguez has announced plans to increase wages, as workers continue to struggle with years of inflation and economic decline in Venezuela.
The minimum hourly wage in the country is currently equivalent to about 27 US cents, while annual inflation exceeds 600 percent. Although some workers earn up to $150 monthly with government bonuses, this remains far below the estimated $645 needed to meet basic household food requirements.
Rodríguez stated that the wage increase will take effect on May 1, describing it as a “responsible” adjustment, though no specific figures were provided.
She acknowledged that past economic policies had made conditions worse and stressed the need to correct those mistakes.
The announcement comes amid growing pressure from Donald Trump, who has asserted influence over Venezuela’s governance and oil sector.
Workers and labour unions have criticised long-standing “poverty wages” and are planning demonstrations in the capital, Caracas, to demand better pay.
Despite the planned increase, economic challenges remain severe, with high inflation and low wages continuing to impact the living conditions of ordinary citizens.
