Mexico Congress Approves Gradual Reduction in Work Week

New law will reduce standard work week from 48 to 40 hours over time

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Mexican Congress approved a measure on Wednesday to gradually reduce the standard work week from 48 hours to 40 hours, aligning the country more closely with international labor standards.

Why it matters

This change aims to improve work-life balance and quality of life for Mexican workers, while also potentially boosting productivity. The move follows similar reductions in work hours in other countries seeking to modernize labor laws.

The details

The new law will phase in the reduction in work hours over time, rather than an immediate change. This is intended to give businesses time to adjust to the new requirements.

  • The Mexican Congress approved the measure on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.

The players

Lizzie Fletcher

U.S. Representative from Houston, Texas.

Christian Menefee

U.S. Representative from Houston, Texas.

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The takeaway

This change in Mexico's labor laws reflects a broader global trend towards reducing work hours and improving work-life balance, which could have implications for businesses and workers on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border.