Mexico Plans Gradual Transition to 40-Hour Work Week by 2030

Mexico’s government will implement a phased reduction of the standard work week from 48 to 40 hours, aiming for full enforcement by January 2030, Labor and Social Security Minister Marath Bolaños announced during a Labor Day speech. This long-anticipated labor reform aligns with President Claudia Sheinbaum’s broader agenda to modernize labor conditions and improve work-life balance in Latin America’s second-largest economy.

Bolaños stated that the ministry will conduct public forums across various Mexican cities from June to July 2025 to gather input from workers, employers, and experts. The findings will shape a legislative proposal outlining the gradual reduction plan. The current standard work week in Mexico is among the longest in the world, with many employees working six days a week.

Efforts to shorten the work week have faced significant delays. A 2023 bill proposing the 40-hour cap was stalled in Congress due to political opposition and concerns from the business sector. A renewed push in 2024 also failed to pass. Despite this, the government remains committed to advancing labor reforms aimed at promoting worker welfare without compromising productivity.

The proposed reduction is expected to benefit millions of workers by offering better work-life balance, improved mental health, and higher job satisfaction. If successfully implemented, Mexico will align more closely with international labor standards already adopted by many OECD countries.

This strategic shift reflects growing global momentum toward shorter work weeks amid evolving workplace norms. The upcoming forums and legislative developments will be key indicators of whether the reform can finally move forward after years of gridlock.