Venezuela's Acting President Delcy Rodriguez revealed plans for a 'responsible increase' to worker wages starting May 1, 2026, banking on revived oil and mining sectors to fund the boost. While no specific figures were shared, the move comes as the South American nation navigates economic recovery amid shifting global alliances. 💼
Currently, the base minimum wage remains frozen at 130 bolivares monthly (about $0.30) since 2022, though many public workers earn up to $150 through bonuses. Rodriguez emphasized this increase will 'steadily restore incomes through productive growth' in hydrocarbon and mineral extraction – sectors generating immediate revenue when production rebounds. ⚡
The announcement follows warming US-Venezuela relations after Washington's controversial detention of President Nicolas Maduro earlier this year. Rodriguez reiterated calls to lift US sanctions while welcoming foreign investment, though she firmly stated state oil giant PDVSA 'won't be privatized'. 🔥
With inflation still looming, the government promises to balance wage growth against price impacts. A new commission will identify strategic state assets, signaling cautious openness to international partnerships. 🌐
