Turkish Metalworkers' Union Announces Strike Decision: Tensions in the Metal Sector

Strike Decision Officially Announced

Türk Metal Trade Union officially formalized the strike decision on January 19 by convening the Presidents' Board after failing to reach an agreement in the collective bargaining process with the Turkey Metal Industrialists' Union (MESS). The date for the implementation of the strike has not yet been announced.

Unresolved Issues in Negotiations

In a statement made by the union, it was noted that during the group collective bargaining negotiations, a total of 54 articles and 2 regulations that are supplementary to the contract were accepted. However, it was highlighted that agreement could not be reached on a total of 38 articles and 1 regulation.

Contract Offers and Expectations

Metal Industrialists' Union (MESS) initially offered a 10% increase for the first 6 months. This rate was subsequently raised to 15% on January 8, 2026, and to 18% (10.5% + a flat increase of 17.30 TL) during the last session on January 13, 2026.

On the other hand, Türk Metal management is demanding a 38.97% wage increase for the first 6 months.