Mexico announces workweek hour reduction

Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, has announced the workweek will be reduced to a maximum of 40 hours by 2030, as reported by Reuters on May 2, 2025.

The announcement marks the country’s most significant labor law reform since 1917, and aligns with broader Latin American efforts to address overwork, improve quality of life, and modernize labor standards.

“This must be made very clear. Reducing working hours does not reduce productivity”, said Secretary of Labor, Marath Bolaños, during the announcement. “What it does is dignify the existence of workers, giving them back hours of their lives and valuing the work they do from week to week.”

Labor groups have welcomed the move, stating it could help reduce burnout and restore work-life balance. However, Mexico’s largest business federation, Coparmex, has criticized the plan, warning of higher costs and lost productivity.

Some businesses also fear additional costs for weekend or Saturday shifts, which are currently treated as standard workdays. Critics argue that without tax incentives or phased implementation support, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) could struggle.

Why is Mexico Changing its Workweek Laws?

Globally, Mexico ranks highly in terms of average work hours, with employers commonly scheduling workweeks over 56 hours, particularly in blue-collar or low-wage sectors. Currently, there are no criminal penalties for companies enforcing longer hours.

The reform would update provisions that have remained largely unchanged for over a century. It would also require better enforcement mechanisms and inspection protocols to prevent ongoing abuse.

The reform is part of a wider regional movement. Chile has already passed a law to implement a 40-hour workweek by 2028, and Colombia is introducing a 42-hour limit by 2026. In Brazil, a controversial proposal to cap work at 36 hours and allow for four-day workweeks is being discussed.

A New Chapter for Mexican Workers

The Mexico workweek reduction proposal represents more than just a policy shift, it signals a cultural transformation in how labor is valued. As Mexico joins a wave of Latin American nations rethinking the role of work in daily life, the reform sets the stage for a more balanced, humane future for its workforce.

While pushback from the business sector is expressed, the government’s phased and collaborative approach demonstrates a serious commitment to modernizing labor standards.

If implemented effectively, the reform won’t just reshape schedules, it will redefine what it means to work and live in Mexico.

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