Peru’s labor market showed signs of renewed strain at the start of 2026, as the national unemployment rate climbed to 6.3% in January 2026, up from 5.9% in December 2025. The latest figures, updated on 15 February 2026, indicate a reversal of the previous month’s improvement and suggest growing pressure on job creation.
The December 2025 reading of 5.9% had marked a comparatively better moment for the Peruvian labor market, but the uptick in January highlights lingering vulnerabilities. The increase may reflect seasonal factors at the turn of the year, alongside broader economic headwinds affecting hiring and labor demand.
With unemployment edging higher, policymakers and market participants will be watching upcoming data closely for signs of whether January’s rise is a temporary fluctuation or the start of a more persistent trend in Peru’s employment outlook.
