Mexico Eyes 40-Hour Workweek Reform Discussion in 2025

President Claudia Sheinbaum plans to initiate discussions in 2025 to reduce the workweek from 48 to 40 hours, marking a potential milestone in labor reform. The proposal, driven by calls for improved work-life balance, involves collaborative talks among business leaders, workers, and legislators to amend Art. 123 of the Constitution. This shift could significantly impact productivity, labor rights, and economic structures, signaling a progressive change in Mexico’s approach to workplace policies. 

During her Dec. 3 press conference, President Sheinbaum announced that discussions on reducing the workweek to 40 hours would be gradual and sector-specific, led by the Ministry of Labor. This builds on earlier attempts to reform Art. 123 of the Constitution to add an extra rest day. While a congressional committee supported the idea, it never reached a full vote, reported MBN. 

However, the issue gained renewed urgency when activist María Luisa Luévano staged a hunger strike outside Congress, demanding progress. This led Ricardo Monreal, Head, Chamber’s Political Coordination Board, to announce plans for dialogue involving business leaders, workers, government officials, and legislators. “I asked her not to risk her life... and that we start a dialogue to reach an agreement. I am always optimistic in looking for ways to find solutions,” Monreal said.

Sheinbaum’s announcement reflects ongoing momentum toward a labor reform in Mexico, with potential implications for work-life balance, productivity, and economic structures. On Dec. 4, Sheinbaum is also expected to address proposals for increasing the minimum wage.

The success of these reforms will depend on collaboration among stakeholders and further deliberations in the coming months.