Mexico to adopt 40-hour workweek by 2030 under proposed labour reforms

Mexico’s Chamber of Deputies Approves Bill Reducing Standard Workweek

A bill aimed at reducing the standard workweek in Mexico has been passed by the country’s lower house, with 469 deputies voting in favor and none opposing it. The bill, which was introduced by President Claudia Sheinbaum last December, would gradually reduce the standard workweek from 48 to 40 hours over a period of time.

The law permits employers to increase overtime hours, but does not change the minimum number of rest days required. The shorter workweek is expected to benefit nearly 13.4 million workers in Mexico and will be implemented in phases, with a two-hour reduction per year until 2030.

Debate on the bill lasted nearly 10 hours, with some critics expressing concerns that the reduction in standard hours would be offset by increases in overtime pay. The ruling Morena party hailed the approval of the bill, with one representative stating that “productivity is not measured by exhaustion, but built with dignity.”

The bill now needs to be approved by two-thirds of Mexico’s state legislatures before it can take effect. This move comes as Mexico seeks to improve its work-life balance, which is currently considered one of the worst in the OECD.

In contrast, Argentina has taken a different approach, with President Javier Milei championing a bill that would extend the workday from eight to 12 hours and restrict overtime pay. The Argentine lower house of Congress recently approved this bill, and it is expected to receive final approval from the Senate in the coming days.

Source: Al Jazeera