The proposal by the President of the German Farmers’ Association to pay seasonal workers only 80% of the minimum wage has sparked significant debate across Europe’s agricultural sector. While some view it as a way to protect local competitiveness, others criticize it as discriminatory and socially unacceptable.
The German debate echoes throughout the Alpine region
Joachim Rukwied, President of the German Farmers’ Association, suggested that foreign seasonal workers should receive only 80% of the statutory minimum wage because “they do not reside permanently in Germany.” Support came from fruit growers in Lower Saxony, but the Ministry of Labour and trade unions strongly opposed it.
This issue goes beyond Germany – it raises broader questions for the entire Alpine region:
Is sustainable agriculture possible without cheap labour? Is it fair for foreigners to earn less?
What is happening in the Alpine countries?
Austria: Seasonal workers in viticulture and horticulture mostly come from Romania and Bulgaria. The minimum wage is mandatory, but enforcement is weak.
Switzerland: Workers in the dairy sector and mountain farms often work under quotas or as volunteers with accommodation and meals.
Italy (South Tyrol): High production standards in apples and wine, but increasing use of agencies hiring workers under lower conditions.
France (Savoie, Provence): Strong labour protection policies, but local producers increasingly claim they “have no economic margin” without state support.
Fair conditions or economic pressure?
Supporters of lower wages argue it’s an economic necessity—if labour costs rise, producers won’t remain competitive, and consumers will turn to cheaper imports. Opponents argue that social justice cannot be reduced to figures: workers, regardless of origin, deserve equal protection.
Source:https://www.landundforst.de/politik/weniger-mindestlohn-fuer-saisonarbeiter-vorstoss-rukwied-573636
