Reducing the Workweek: Why Gradual Implementation Is Key

Mexico is on the brink of a major labor reform that could reshape the future of work in the country: reducing the legal workweek from 48 to 40 hours. This initiative, currently under legislative discussion, seeks to improve work-life balance, boost productivity, and align Mexico with international labor standards. However, such a change requires careful planning and a realistic roadmap. Implementing this reform gradually — over the course of several years, as is currently proposed until 2030 — is not just a pragmatic solution, it is the most responsible way to ensure its long-term success for both workers and employers.

The debate surrounding workweek reduction is not new, and Mexico is not alone in pursuing it. Across Latin America, countries such as Chile, Colombia, and Ecuador have also initiated reforms to shorten the workweek. While these reforms have been welcomed by workers and labor advocates, the process of implementation has not always been smooth. Mexico has a unique opportunity to learn from these experiences, avoiding the pitfalls and replicating the best practices.

For instance, in Chile, the gradual reduction of the workweek from 45 to 40 hours began in 2023 and is set to be completed by 2028. By phasing in the reform, the Chilean government gave companies time to adapt operationally and financially. This approach also allowed smaller businesses to plan ahead and restructure their workforce without sudden disruptions. However, Chile’s main lesson was the importance of early guidance for companies and a robust communication strategy. Many employers, especially SMEs, initially struggled due to a lack of clarity on how to adjust contracts and maintain productivity.

Similarly, Colombia passed a law in 2021 to reduce the workweek from 48 to 42 hours by 2026. Though well-intentioned, the reform faced resistance from employers who were concerned about increased costs and operational complexity. The Colombian experience shows that legislative will is not enough — technical support, sector-specific analysis, and clear transition timelines are critical. Without these, even the most progressive labor policies risk generating confusion and tension in the labor market.

If Mexico wishes to achieve a successful and sustainable transition to a 40-hour workweek, a gradual implementation — like the one being proposed — is the most strategic path forward. This timeline allows for an open and inclusive dialogue between government, workers, and employers. It creates space for industry-specific adjustments and workforce planning. Moreover, it enables complementary public policies, such as training for productivity, digital transformation for efficiency, and formalization of informal labor, to be developed and rolled out alongside the reform.

There are also economic realities that cannot be ignored. Many Mexican companies, especially in the manufacturing and service sectors, still rely on high working hours to meet productivity demands. A sudden reduction in hours could create pressure to increase headcount or absorb higher wage costs, without a corresponding increase in productivity. Spreading the reform over several years allows companies to rethink their labor strategies, invest in technology, and train their teams accordingly.

From a social perspective, reducing the workweek can have profound benefits. It can improve mental health, foster gender equality by allowing more equitable caregiving responsibilities, and elevate overall quality of life. But for these benefits to materialize, the transition must be planned with technical precision and social consensus.

The move toward a 40-hour workweek in Mexico is both timely and necessary. But its success depends not only on the strength of its intention but on the quality of its execution. A gradual, structured approach will help ensure that workers reap the benefits of more balanced lives, while companies have the time and tools to adapt sustainably. Let’s learn from the region, act responsibly, and build a labor future that works for everyone.