The 40 -hour workday weekly is no longer a utopia in Mexico; On May 1, this 2025, the Federal government has announced a gradual plan to reduce the weekly day from 48 to 40 hours.
This measure represents one of the most important labor changes in decades and will directly benefit Millions of workerswith positive effects on productivity, mental health and family life.
I tell you today Who will benefit from the 40 -hour workday and how this historical change will be implemented.
When does the 40 -hour working day enter Mexico? (Photo: Dedinero)
Currently, the Federal Labor Law in Mexico allows working days of up to 48 hours a week, which is equivalent to eight hours a day from Monday to Saturday.
The new proposal seeks to align with more modern international standards, where the working day does not exceed 40 hours per week.
This reduction does not mean loss of productivity, on the contrary: countries such as France, Germany or Sweden have shown that shorter days drive greater efficiency, reduce absenteeism and improve general well -being.
Even in Mexico there are workers who work 8 hours a day for 5 days, with 2 days of mandatory rest in the contract.
48% of the formal workforce in Mexico will be directly benefited from reducing the day, according to Labor Secretary, Marath Bolaños. This includes:
- Workers of the services sector, such as customer service, restaurant, hoteliers and cleaning employees.
- Manufacturing industry employees, who currently work under strict schemes 6 days a week.
- Commerce workers, both in physical stores and on formal digital platforms.
The reform also represents a watershed for future labor regulations that favor emotional well -being and quality free time, recognizing that productivity should not be measured for number of hours, but for results.
Although it is not yet law, the government of President Claudia Sheinbaum has confirmed that this change will come true.
The complete implementation is scheduled for the year 2030, and between June and July 2025 regional forums will be carried out with the participation of workers, companies, unions and labor experts.
The objective is to build a consensual transition route, where companies can adapt their operations without layoffs and where workers maintain their complete income.
The fundamental premise is: less hours, same salary.
-The positive effects of a shorter day are multiple and backed by international studies:
Less time at work means less stress, anxiety and fatigue. This translates into less diseases and lower labor rotation.
More time for family, rest and recreational activities. This favors the emotional and social harmony of the worker.
Contrary to what is thought, working more hours does not always imply greater performance. With fewer days, workers tend to be more focused and efficient.
Free time allows people to make more purchases, travel, consume services or participate in the digital economy. This benefits the Mexican domestic market.
While the reform is well received by the workers, some business sectors, especially SMEs, have expressed concerns about labor costs and logistics.
However, from the Ministry of Labor it is affirmed that there is already an openness of the business sector to adapt to these new times, and that the transition will be accompanied and staggered to avoid negative impacts.
The 40 -hour day is not the only improvement in the horizon. Congress has also approved reforms such as:
- Property Law to guarantee the fair distribution and its incorporation into the salary.
- Labor rights for Distributors and Apps drivers, which will be formally recognized as workers with access to social security and benefits.
These measures confirm a new era in Mexican labor policy, with a clear approach to the dignity and well -being of workers.
Its complete implementation for the year 2030 is expected, initiating with consultations and agreements in 2025.
No. The reform is based on the equal salary principle, regardless of the time adjustment.
Mainly who are in the formal sector. However, the measure is expected to also press the informal sector to improve its working conditions.
Only if they do not adapt with planning. The government promises technical and legal accompaniment so that the transition does not imply loss or layoffs.
Mexico adds to a global trend that recognizes that working less is not working worse. With benefits for both employees and the economy in general, 40 -hour journey It is a historical debt that finally begins to be. If you work in a formal employmentprepare: your quality of working life is about to improve.
