Since the introduction of the Mobility Package, international drivers have been required to pay social security contributions based on the average national wage, which has significantly increased labor costs for carriers. Previously, the system was based on a “base salary plus allowances” model – contributions were calculated on a base close to the minimum wage.

What’s Changing – Proposal for a New Solution

The Deputy Minister of Infrastructure has announced that the government is considering a one-year return to lower contributions for drivers – the so-called “low ZUS” option, where contributions would be calculated on the minimum wage instead of the national average.

Key points of the proposal:

• Duration: one year.
• Mechanism: social contributions paid on the minimum wage, with the state budget covering the difference up to the level of the average wage.
• Objective: to provide relief for the transport industry in the face of economic difficulties and rising costs.

Criticism and Concerns

The proposal has faced resistance from several sides:

• Ministry of Finance – has not approved the proposed solution.
• Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy – fears this mechanism could set a precedent for other professions.
• Budgetary impact – subsidies from the state budget could become a heavy burden.

Current Status

The project has been under review at the Ministry of Infrastructure for several months; interministerial consultations and discussions are ongoing.
In July, it was debated in the Standing Committee of the Council of Ministers.
As of today, there is no adopted government position ready to move forward to parliament.

Reflections and Possible Scenarios

Benefits for the industry
A contribution system based on the minimum wage could significantly reduce carriers’ operating costs and provide much-needed relief in challenging market conditions.

Risk of precedent
Granting such a privilege to drivers may encourage similar demands from other sectors.

Budgetary burden
The need for subsidies from the state budget poses a real challenge, especially amid rising public spending.

Conditions and safeguards
The solution assumes that drivers’ social insurance coverage would still correspond to the average wage, ensuring the protection of their rights.

Conclusion

A return to lower social contributions for drivers is a proposal that could bring tangible benefits to the transport sector, but at the same time raises serious questions about public finances and systemic fairness. For now, the matter remains at the stage of interministerial consultations, with political decisions still ahead.