Key Union Negotiations in Early 2025
In the first half of 2025, union negotiations for groups such as airport baggage handlers, telephone operators, and automotive industry workers have prioritized contract and salary revisions over strikes. This shift highlights a trend towards peaceful negotiation and collaboration between unions and companies.
SITAUDI and Audi Mexico Reach Agreement
According to the Federal Center for Labor Mediation and Registration (CFCRL), the Independent Workers Union of Audi Mexico (SITAUDI) successfully negotiated a direct 5.3% salary increase with Audi’s management, avoiding any potential strikes. This agreement directly impacts approximately 5,600 workers at Audi’s San José Chiapa plant in Puebla.
ASSA and Aeroméxico Reach Tentative Agreement
The Association of Airport Baggage Handlers (ASSA) initially rejected Aeroméxico’s salary increase proposals twice before accepting a 3.98% raise. After 120 votes in favor, the baggage handlers agreed to a differential increase: 3.93% for Contract A and 5.35% for Contract B.
Sindicato de la Industria Metal-Mecánica and Kyoho México
The Metal-Mechanical Industry Workers Union signed a salary review agreement with Kyoho Mexico, resulting in an 8.5% wage increase for 579 unionized workers and 226 contracted workers.
STRM and Teléfonos de México Negotiations Continue
The Mexican Republic Telephone Workers Union (STRM) leader, Francisco Hernández Juárez, accused Teléfonos de México of showing little interest and seriousness towards workers, as the company failed to present any salary increase proposal. Despite this, the union has issued several strike extension notices while negotiations continue.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main trend in union negotiations during the first half of 2025? Unions are prioritizing contract and salary revisions over strikes, emphasizing peaceful negotiation and collaboration with companies.
- What notable agreements have been reached so far?
- SITAUDI secured a 5.3% salary increase for approximately 5,600 Audi Mexico workers.
- ASSA agreed to a 3.98% salary raise after initially rejecting Aeroméxico’s proposals.
- The Metal-Mechanical Industry Workers Union obtained an 8.5% wage increase for 805 Kyoho Mexico workers.
- STRM continues negotiations with Teléfonos de México, which has yet to propose a salary increase.
- What role does the Secretaría de Trabajo y Previsión Social (STPS) play in these negotiations? The STPS has requested extensions for negotiation periods and mediated discussions between unions and companies to reach agreements.
Expert Commentary
Labor expert Pablo Franco noted that most successful negotiations have occurred in companies where dialogue and collaboration have been prioritized. He emphasized that strong unions are crucial for these positive outcomes, but uncertainty surrounding tariffs and lack of transparency in revision processes can create challenges.
