Overview
- Mexico’s Labor Ministry confirmed a phased cut to a 40-hour legal workweek by 2030, stepping down to 46 hours in 2027, 44 in 2028, and 42 in 2029.
- Germany’s government is preparing a bill to replace the eight-hour daily limit with a 48-hour weekly cap, with a draft expected in June 2026.
- The German Trade Union Confederation, led by Yasmin Fahimi, warns the change could stretch daily shifts and weaken social safeguards.
- The Netherlands offers a long-run example, with average work near 32.1 hours and strong hourly productivity linked to flexible contracts and the 1982 Wassenaar social pact.
- In Mexico, backers cite health gains and possible productivity improvements, while business groups warn of higher operating costs and pressure on small firms.