Introduction
Reducing work hours in Mexico is not merely an initiative; it’s a chance to redefine the balance between productivity and well-being. COPARMEX, believing in an inclusive labor model that prioritizes people and acknowledges the importance of healthy businesses for dignified employment, embraces this reform with responsibility and pragmatism.
A Gradual Transition
COPARMEX proposes a phased transition, recognizing that each sector—from mining to commerce—has unique productive dynamics. The aim is not to impose a one-size-fits-all scheme but to flexibly adjust work hours weekly, bi-weekly, or mixed, according to each industry’s specifics. This ensures that the reduction of hours does not hinder competitiveness or jeopardize formal employment, which currently generates 65% of Mexico’s jobs.
Periodic Review Mechanism
A periodic review mechanism will be crucial in this process. A tripartite committee—comprising government, workers, and employers—will annually assess macroeconomic indicators such as inflation, GDP, and productivity trends. In case of sudden changes, like an economic recession, this mechanism will allow for pausing progress, adjusting timelines, or implementing temporary measures without losing sight of the primary objective.
Institutional Dialogue
COPARMEX emphasizes the need for a robust institutional dialogue channel. The proposal is to integrate the National Social, Economic, and Environmental Council (CONSEA) as a formal space to build technical consensus and ensure equitable decision-making. The CONSEA will bring together all relevant actors to validate proposals, review results, and anticipate challenges, providing the transparency and social support necessary for such a significant change.
Protecting SMEs
Implementing this reduction should be accompanied by incentives, especially for SMEs. These could include full tax deductibility of labor benefits, adjustments to the Income Tax (ISR) and Employment Subsidy, as well as support funds for businesses to adopt better organizational and productivity practices. These tools will help mitigate the impact of reduced hours without compromising business viability or worker income.
Learning from International Experience
International experience supports this path. Countries like Chile have successfully gradually reduced work hours, pairing the initiative with productivity policies and periodic review schemes. Mexico can learn from these lessons and adapt the model to its economic and social complexity.
Towards a More Humane and Competitive Work Environment
By working together, this process can establish a more humane and competitive work environment. Governments, unions, and businesses must share responsibility in designing and implementing this reform with technical rigor, openness to debate, and commitment to results. Only then can we create a work framework that respects people’s time, strengthens businesses, and contributes to sustainable growth.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is COPARMEX’s approach to reducing work hours? COPARMEX proposes a gradual transition, adjusting work hours flexibly according to each sector’s productive dynamics. They emphasize a periodic review mechanism and institutional dialogue for equitable decision-making.
- How will COPARMEX protect SMEs during this transition? COPARMEX suggests incentives like full tax deductibility of labor benefits, adjustments to taxes and subsidies, and support funds for adopting better organizational practices.
- What can Mexico learn from international experiences? Mexico can learn from countries like Chile that have successfully reduced work hours gradually, pairing the initiative with productivity policies and periodic review schemes.
