The 40-hour workweek in Mexico is now a reality, after the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare (STPS) announced the official progress of the initiative on December 3rd. This initiative aims to improve working conditions for millions of workers in the country.
The reform, which modifies Article 123 of the Constitution, has generated doubts among employees and employers, especially regarding whether it will entail two mandatory days off per week. Below, we explain what the initiative actually establishes.
How does the workweek currently work in Mexico?
Currently, the legal workweek is 48 hours, generally distributed over six working days with one day off.
With the reform, this workload will be gradually reduced to 40 hours per week by 2030, that is, eight hours less than the current schedule.
Does the reform grant two mandatory days off?
No. The initiative does not establish two mandatory days off for workers.
The reform envisions a gradual reduction in working hours, but the distribution of workdays remains at the discretion of each company, as long as the new weekly limit is respected.
This means that employees could continue working six days a week, but with shorter daily shifts, or they could concentrate their hours into fewer days if they agree with their employer.
When does the 40-hour workweek take effect?
The constitutional reform will take effect on May 1, 2026, once it has been approved by the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate. From that date, a phased transition period will begin, lasting until 2030.
Working Hour Reduction Schedule
According to the proposal, the reduction in hours will be implemented as follows:
2026: The reform takes effect with a transition period.
2027: 46-hour workweek.
2028: 44-hour workweek.
2029: 42-hour workweek.
2030: Final 40-hour workweek.
Why is the labor reform generating debate?
One of the main points of contention is that, although hours are reduced, longer rest periods are not guaranteed. For some specialists, this limits the positive impact on workers’ health, productivity, and quality of life.
Even so, labor authorities consider this reform a historic step forward for the working class and aligns Mexico with international labor standards.
Source: msn
