Cancún Forum Debates 40-Hour Workweek Shift

Cancún, Mexico — The sixth and final regional forum on reducing the workweek from 48 to 40 hours began Monday at the Cancún Convention Center, led by Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama. Organized by the Secretariat of Labor and Social Welfare (STPS), the event gathered input from workers, unions, business chambers—including Canaco, Coparmex, Canacintra, and hotel associations—as well as academics and state officials.

Balancing Labor Rights and Economic Competitiveness

Cancún was selected for its significance in the tourism sector, where long work hours are common. The forum aims to reconcile workers' rights with economic competitiveness, including proposals for fiscal incentives to offset potential costs for businesses.

Benefits and Concerns

The International Labour Organization highlights potential benefits for employees, such as reduced fatigue, fewer workplace errors and accidents, lower absenteeism, improved work-life balance, and decreased risks of depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, and cardiovascular issues.

However, private-sector representatives expressed concerns about rising labor costs due to additional hiring, logistical challenges in restructuring shifts—particularly in tourism and weekend operations—and requested tax relief to mitigate financial impacts.

Next Steps and Gradual Implementation

Following the forum, conclusions will be presented by mid-July 2025. A reform proposal will be submitted to Congress on September 1, 2025, with a phased reduction plan:

• 2026: 47 hours
• 2027: 46 hours
• 2028: 44 hours
• 2029: 42 hours
• 2030: 40 hours

The gradual timeline is designed to ease the transition for businesses while aligning with international labor standards.