The first quarter of 2026 demonstrated positive trends in the country's labor market. The growth in available vacancies, expansion of private sector employment, wage increases, and a relatively low unemployment rate confirm economic activity and stable domestic demand.
Labor demand is growing
According to Central Bank data, in March, the number of vacant jobs increased by 9.8% compared to the same period last year. This indicates a growing demand for labor in the real sector of the economy. Particularly high demand for personnel remains in the service, retail, catering, and manufacturing sectors, which once again highlights their significance in economic growth.
Population activity in the labor market
Simultaneously, population activity in the labor market has noticeably increased. In the first quarter, the number of active resumes grew by 31.5%, reaching 636 thousand people. This growth shows the activation of citizens seeking employment and broader use of modern job placement platforms. This process contributes to increasing the openness and competitiveness of the labor market.
Role of the private sector and stability
Analytical data indicates that the private sector remains the main source of employment growth. By the end of 2025, employment in this sector increased by 5.2%. Achievements in reforms aimed at supporting private entrepreneurship, improving the investment climate, and creating new business entities confirm the practical effectiveness of these measures in the labor market.
The formation of an unemployment rate at 4.8% indicates a relatively stable balance in the labor market. It also demonstrates the increasing effectiveness of state programs aimed at creating new jobs, professional training, and developing entrepreneurship.
Income growth and external support
A positive trend in household income growth was also observed. In the first quarter, nominal wages increased by 17.4%, and real wages by 9.5%. The growth in real wages means an strengthening of the population's purchasing power after accounting for inflation, which is an important factor supporting the domestic consumer market and ensuring economic growth.
Furthermore, remittances related to external labor migration reached $3.8 billion, which is 13% more than in the same period last year. These funds serve as an important source of income support for the population, directed towards domestic consumption, housing improvement, education, and small business financing.
Overall conclusions for the first quarter
Overall, the indicators for the first quarter of 2026 confirm the sustainable development of positive changes in the labor market. The growth in labor demand, the strengthening role of the private sector in the economy, the increase in household income, and the maintenance of a relatively low unemployment rate indicate stable economic development of the country and the successful implementation of structural reforms in the labor market.



