Mexico Advances Landmark 40-Hour Workweek Reform

On February 11, 2026, Mexico's Senate approved a significant labor reform that aims to reduce the legal workweek from 48 hours to 40 hours. The proposal, introduced by President Claudia Sheinbaum, received unanimous support with 121 votes in favor and none against, reflecting a broad political consensus. The initiative now moves to the Chamber of Deputies for further debate and potential final approval. If enacted, the reform will be implemented gradually, with the workweek decreasing by two hours each year until it reaches 40 hours by 2030. The first reduction is scheduled for January 2027, when the workweek will drop to 46 hours.

The Straits TimesSenate Committees Advance 40-Hour Workweek ReformMexico Senate Approves 40-Hour Workweek Reform, Bill Advances to Lower HouseUnions Raise Concerns Over Mexico’s Proposed 40-Hour WorkweekMexico’s 40-Hour Workweek Raises Questions Over Pay, Tracking

The reform is part of a broader effort to modernize labor standards in Mexico, where the average annual working hours are among the highest in the OECD, at approximately 2,128 hours. The current 48-hour workweek has been in place for over a century. The Ministry of Labor has framed this reform as a necessary update to improve work-life balance and productivity, citing evidence from the International Labour Organization (ILO) that suggests phased reductions can enhance worker well-being and efficiency.

Mexico’s 40-Hour Workweek Raises Questions Over Pay, Tracking

The proposed legislation includes several key provisions:

Senate Committees Advance 40-Hour Workweek Reform

• A gradual reduction of the workweek to 40 hours by 2030.

Senate Committees Advance 40-Hour Workweek Reform

• Maintenance of one mandatory rest day per week.

Senate Committees Advance 40-Hour Workweek Reform

• Expansion of overtime limits, allowing for increased double-paid overtime from nine to 12 hours per week and capping triple-paid overtime at four hours.

Senate Committees Advance 40-Hour Workweek Reform

• Implementation of electronic time-tracking systems to ensure compliance and accurate reporting of working hours.

Mexico’s 40-Hour Workweek Raises Questions Over Pay, Tracking

Despite the unanimous approval in the Senate, the reform has faced criticism from labor unions and opposition lawmakers. Critics argue that the proposal contains loopholes that may undermine its effectiveness, preserving a six-days-on, one-day-off work model. Union representatives have expressed concerns that the redefinition of "effective working time" could lead to disputes over pay practices, particularly in sectors with significant standby periods, such as call centers. Senator Claudia Anaya has highlighted the lack of transitional provisions that could affect workers' net income.

Senate Committees Advance 40-Hour Workweek Reform

Marath Bolaños, Minister of Labor, defended the reform, stating, “What we want is flexibility in favor of workers, so that working people themselves, in agreement with their employers, can define how their workday will be organized.” He emphasized that the reform aims to balance operational flexibility with the need for reduced working hours. Ignacio Mier, President of the Senate’s Joint Coordination Committee, noted that the reform is structured to extend labor rights while avoiding disruptions to production.

Unions Raise Concerns Over Mexico’s Proposed 40-Hour Workweek

As the proposal advances to the Chamber of Deputies, lawmakers will continue to debate not only the reduction in hours but also the implications of how working time is defined and measured. The outcome of this legislative process could significantly reshape labor relations and economic structures across Mexico, impacting millions of workers by the end of the decade.

Mexico’s 40-Hour Workweek Raises Questions Over Pay, Tracking