Mexico’s 40-Hour Workweek Nears as Survey Finds Most Firms Unprepared

Overview

• EY, which on Monday reported that 72% of employers have taken no concrete steps, said payroll costs could rise 15% to 20% and flagged widespread dependence on overtime.
• The reform reduces the legal workweek from 48 to 40 hours on a phased schedule through 2030 set by the federal government.
• Coparmex Tijuana urged companies to follow the legal calendar rather than move early, as many firms run pilots and buy automation to hold output with fewer hours.
• Sectors with shift and manual work such as maquiladoras and security services face the hardest adjustments, while tech, professional services and call centers are finding productivity gains faster.
• Labor specialists advise employers to update contracts, internal rules and policies by December 31, 2026 to reduce legal risk as shorter weeks begin to take effect.