Spanish congress votes on pension hikes, eviction moratorium and price caps amid economic uncertainty

The Spanish Congress is set to vote this Thursday on the fate of key economic measures, including pension hikes, an eviction moratorium, and price caps in emergency situations.

Pension reforms on the table

Retirees stand to gain a 2.7% increase in pension payments in 2026, with those receiving the average monthly pension of €2,434 seeing an additional €40-45 per month. The maximum pension will rise from €3,267.60 to approximately €3,355 per month. These increases come as the average cost of living in Spain continues to rise.

Eviction moratorium and social housing

Concerns over housing affordability have prompted the government to introduce a moratorium on evictions for vulnerable households. This measure applies to homeowners with one or two properties, provided they are not themselves considered vulnerable. Proprietors of three or more properties will not face eviction if a previous agreement is in place and the owner is not deemed vulnerable.

Price caps in emergencies

A new decree aims to prevent price gouging during emergencies by allowing the Ministry of Consumer Affairs to set price limits. This power will be exercised in extraordinary situations where there is a reduced supply of essential goods, such as during the DANA (VTC) crisis or in the aftermath of the Adamuz train accident.

Timeline and implications

The Congress's vote on these measures is expected to take place this Thursday, February 26. If approved, the pension increases will take effect in March, with updated payments being disbursed. The eviction moratorium and price cap decrees will also enter into force once ratified.

Reactions from political parties

Opposition parties including the PP, Vox, Junts, and UPN initially rejected the government's