On May 1, 2025, the Mexican government made a significant announcement regarding labor reform, revealing plans to gradually reduce the work week from 48 to 40 hours by January 2030. This decision was unveiled by Secretary of Labor Marath Bolaños during a ceremony commemorating International Workers' Day, where he emphasized the need for a collaborative approach in shaping this proposal through upcoming dialogue sessions.
Starting June 2, 2025, and running until July 7, 2025, the government will convene various sectors, including business owners, unions, and workers, to discuss the implementation of this reform. President Claudia Sheinbaum clarified that such a transition cannot occur overnight, stating, “It cannot be done from one day to the next, but what is important is how we will do it and that it is an agreement that allows for better conditions for workers.”
Currently, the official work week in Mexico consists of 48 hours spread over up to six business days, with at least one day of rest. However, many workers often exceed 56 hours a week without any penalties for employers. The proposed reduction aims to not only improve the quality of life for workers but also align Mexico with a growing trend in South America, where countries like Chile and Colombia are also moving towards shorter work weeks.
During the announcement, Bolaños highlighted that reducing work hours does not diminish productivity. He stated, “This historic change will be made through a process of social dialogue, in which all involved parties will be considered.” This sentiment was echoed by labor specialist Manuel Fuentes, who noted that this step positions Mexico alongside other nations in the region advocating for gradual reductions in work hours.
Despite the optimism surrounding the reform, challenges loom on the horizon. The president of the Mexican Confederation of Employers (Coparmex), Juan José Sierra, expressed concerns over the timing of such a proposal, arguing that it could deter investment in a time of economic slowdown. He stated, “Now is not the time to implement this proposal; instead, we should be enhancing Mexico's appeal as an investment destination.”
Business leaders are expected to voice their need for flexibility and exceptions during the forthcoming discussions. They argue that the current economic climate, characterized by low investment and job creation, necessitates a careful analysis before implementing such significant changes. Sierra warned that without proper consideration, the initiative could jeopardize job creation and deter new investments in Mexico.
This labor reform initiative is not entirely new. In October 2022, a similar proposal was introduced by Morena deputy Susana Prieto Terrazas but faced significant hurdles in Congress, ultimately being shelved. The previous administration also experienced delays in bringing the issue to a vote, with the last modification to the work week in Mexico dating back to 1917.
As part of her campaign promises, Sheinbaum committed to reducing the work week, and her administration is now taking steps to fulfill this pledge. The pilot program currently being conducted by Walmart de México (Walmex) in 100 stores aims to assess the potential impacts of a shorter work week and identify ways to mitigate challenges through technological advancements and process improvements.
In light of the historical context, many workers and activists see this reform as a long-overdue change. Thousands of workers marched in Mexico City on May 1, demanding better working conditions, including improved wages, housing rights, and dignified retirement. Benito Collantes, a retired worker who participated in the march, stated, “We have always asked for better working conditions for workers, farmers, and teachers. This is a way to protest.”
While the government has initiated the dialogue process, experts like Fuentes caution that the actual implementation of the reform may not materialize until 2027 or 2028. “There is still a long way to go. Nothing is defined with this announcement; the dialogue table has just begun, and we must wait for the decisions,” he remarked.
The OECD reports that Mexico is one of the countries where people spend the most time at work, averaging 2,226 hours annually—more than workers in Costa Rica, Chile, Israel, or Russia. As the discussions unfold, the Mexican government aims to create a collective model that addresses the demands for shorter work hours while ensuring that productivity remains intact.
In summary, the gradual reduction of the work week in Mexico marks a pivotal moment in labor history, reflecting a broader movement towards improving work-life balance for employees. As stakeholders prepare for the upcoming discussions, the nation stands at a crossroads, weighing the potential benefits against the economic realities that could influence the path forward.
