The National Union of Metalworkers of SA (Numsa) and bosses in the pharmaceutical sector have signed a two-year wage agreement.
The pay deal will see the sector’s 10,000 workers getting an increase of 5.5% from July 1 2025, which rises to 6% from January 2026, and again another 5.5% increase from July 2026, increasing to 6% from January 2027. The inflation rate is hovering around 3%.
According to global data and business intelligence platform, Statista, SA’s pharmaceuticals market is expected to generate revenue of $3.47bn in 2025. The sector has been witnessing a surge in demand for generic drugs due to their affordability and accessibility. The largest market is oncology drugs with a projected market volume of $640.60m in 2025.
Numsa spokesperson Phakamile Hlubi-Majola said other benefits of the wage agreement included the extension of maternity leave from four to six months.
“Workers will now receive 75% of their basic salary for the first four months, up from a mere 45% for six months previously. The agreement will be extended to non-party employers, ensuring broader protection for workers across the sector,” she said.
“This victory is not just a win at the bargaining table, it is a testament to Numsa’s militant commitment to improving the lives of workers and their families. It reflects our 2013 resolution to expand our organising efforts beyond traditional sectors, and we are proud to see that vision materialise.”
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