Reduction of the Workweek in Mexico: What Companies Should Anticipate
Mar 5, 2026
On March 3, 2026, a constitutional reform to Article 123 of the Mexican Constitution was published in the Official Gazette (Diario Oficial de la Federación), establishing a gradual reduction of the workweek to 40 hours.
Beyond the public debate, for businesses this represents a structural change in the way work will be organized in Mexico.
The transition will occur progressively:
2026 → 48 hours
2027 → 46 hours
2028 → 44 hours
2029 → 42 hours
2030 → 40 hours
A key aspect of the reform is that the reduction in working hours cannot result in any decrease in salaries or employee benefits.
In practical terms, this means that the effective labor cost per hour worked will increase.
As a result, many organizations will need to reassess:
- work schedules and shift structures
- workload distribution and productivity
- potential hiring needs
- overtime management and limits
- labor compliance and documentation
This reform is not merely a labor law change.
It represents an operational and strategic shift for companies operating in Mexico.
Organizations that begin evaluating the potential impact today will be better positioned to adapt and turn this change into an opportunity to improve efficiency and productivity.
At AS Consulting Group (ASCG), we are supporting companies in assessing the implications of this reform, redesigning workforce models, and strengthening compliance and workforce management systems.
Because when it comes to labor regulation, anticipating change is always less costly than reacting to it.
View the Decree: Download as PDF
We are AS Consulting Group (ASCG), a Mexican firm operating since 1991, specializing in delivering comprehensive “all-in-one” services for domestic and foreign companies in Mexico, including accounting, tax, legal, labor and payroll services, electronic invoicing, sustainability, technological development, real estate design and architecture, regulatory compliance, foreign investment, and business consulting. Our approach enables clients to centralize their professional needs within a single team, ensuring compliance, control, and the sustainable growth of their operations. ASCG is a member firm of SMS Latinoamérica, an international network of professional firms with a presence in more than 21 countries. The member firms of SMS Latinoamérica are legally independent entities that operate under their own local regulations. SMS Latinoamérica does not provide services directly and does not assume responsibility for the acts or omissions of its member firms.
The information contained in this communication is of a general nature and is provided for informational purposes only. Neither AS Consulting Group, nor its affiliates, nor SMS Latinoamérica or its member firms provide professional advice through this publication. Before making any decisions that may affect your business, you are advised to consult a qualified professional advisor. None of the entities mentioned shall be liable for any losses or damages arising from the use of this information.
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