Formal employment in Peru grew by 3.9% in January 2026

In January 2026, formal employment in Peru increased by 3.9% compared to the same month last year, marking a period of 22 consecutive months of growth. This rise comes in a favorable context for the country's labor market, which has shown signs of recovery following the adverse impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic crisis that affected the region.

The growth in formal employment is indicative of improved labor conditions and increased business confidence in the Peruvian economy. According to the Ministry of Labor, this increase has been driven by the recovery of key sectors such as construction, services, and commerce. These sectors have not only generated new jobs but have also improved existing employment conditions.

This growth aligns with the trend observed in other Latin American countries, where job recovery has been a priority focus for governments. However, analysts warn that despite this progress, significant challenges remain, such as labor informality and disparities in job quality.

Informality continues to be a critical issue in Peru, where a large portion of the active population works without the benefits and protections that formal employment offers. It is essential for public policies to focus on promoting job formalization and creating a favorable environment for business growth.

With these results, Peru positions itself as an example of recovery in the region, but it is crucial to continue implementing strategies that ensure sustainable and equitable growth in the labor market.