Quintana Roo Backs 40-Hour Workweek, Urges Gradual Shift

Cancún, Mexico — Business leaders in Quintana Roo have expressed support for Mexico’s proposed labor reform to reduce the workweek to 40 hours but emphasize the need for a gradual implementation to protect vulnerable sectors, particularly in tourism-dependent regions like the Mexican Caribbean.

Sergio León Cervantes, president of Empresarios por Quintana Roo (Business Leaders for Quintana Roo), acknowledged that the reduction aligns with global trends promoted by international organizations such as the UN, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the World Trade Organization (WTO). However, he cautioned that Mexico’s status as a developing economy requires a phased approach to prevent severe disruptions to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), which account for 95% of the country’s businesses and employment.

Concerns Over Immediate Implementation

León Cervantes warned that an abrupt reduction could force many small businesses to close, particularly in Quintana Roo, where tourism drives the economy.

“If this reform is applied suddenly, it could lead to the collapse of many companies, especially the smallest ones. That’s why it’s crucial for the government to consider a gradual rollout by 2030,” he stated in an interview with Radio Fórmula.

Impact on Tourism Workers

A key concern is the potential financial strain on tourism-sector employees, many of whom rely on tips and overtime pay to supplement their incomes. Waitstaff, bellhops, housekeepers, and other frontline workers could face significant income losses under a reduced workweek.

“This measure must account for the realities of the tourism industry. Many workers earn more from tips than their base salary, and cutting their hours could hurt their household budgets,” León Cervantes explained.

To address these challenges, Empresarios por Quintana Roo has proposed federal roundtable discussions involving government officials, unions, business owners, and workers.

“This isn’t just about protecting businesses—it’s about safeguarding workers who depend on this system to earn a dignified living,” he stressed.

Economic Diversification Efforts

Beyond labor reforms, León Cervantes highlighted the organization’s efforts to diversify Quintana Roo’s economy through international trade missions. So far this year, delegations have visited India and Brazil, with upcoming engagements planned in Germany and Colombia. These initiatives have already secured trade agreements worth an estimated $10 million annually while attracting potential industrial investments to the state.

Additionally, Cancún will host the first Export Workshop on May 28, organized in collaboration with the Secretary of Economic Development and the Institute for State Development and Financing. The program aims to train local entrepreneurs in export and import processes.

“Exporting doesn’t happen in isolation—it often requires importing machinery or materials for production. We want to educate business owners on the full cycle of international trade,” he said.

The workshop will initially accommodate 60 participants, with plans to expand to other regions, including Chetumal.