The Russian labor market is preparing for layoffs.

      This is happening against the backdrop of declining business activity and rising costs, according to regulatory experts. The number of companies planning to increase salaries has significantly decreased—from 84% at the beginning of the year to 71% in June 2025—with the median salary growth forecast also falling from 8.4% to 5.3%. This is particularly noticeable in sectors such as trade, extraction, chemicals, construction, and agriculture, reports Kommersant. Furthermore, many companies have already begun implementing fixed measures: personnel reductions, introducing part-time work, and granting unplanned leaves. Regulators note that the slowdown in wage growth will help curb inflation. However, for employees, this means increased competition for jobs and higher demand for productivity enhancements.