Background on the Issue
In Mexico, a pilot program for digital platform workers has introduced contribution percentages of 60%, 50%, and 15%. These figures have proven to be highly effective, benefiting workers who rely on this activity as their primary income source while avoiding cost transfers to consumers.
Who are the Experts?
The analysis comes from labor specialists at D&M Abogados, who have detailed the program’s success in formalizing and dignifying the sector. Their report highlights that over 1.46 million drivers and couriers joined the IMSS in the first month, granting security social access to more than 3.5 million Mexicans.
Key Arguments for Maintaining the 60% Model
Hector de la Cruz emphasized that the 60% factor in net income calculation is crucial for achieving these goals while preserving the balance between labor inclusion and sector sustainability.
De la Cruz also referenced the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation’s (SCJN) stance on balancing worker protection with employer obligations. The 60% net income calculation, according to the SCJN, adheres to this principle by granting labor rights and dignifying individuals while ensuring job viability.
During the “Actualización Laboral para Plataformas Digitales” forum, de la Cruz explained that reducing this percentage would distort the model, including individuals not relying on this activity as their primary income source or having other income sources.
Upcoming Adjustments to the Program
Alejandro Salafranca, head of the Dignified Work Unit, announced that after three months of the pilot program for digital platform workers, adjustments will be made. These changes may involve altering the contribution percentages set in July.
Salafranca stated that the goal is to ensure definitive factors, entering into effect in January, are not identical to provisional ones. This strategy aims to build confidence in the sector, prevent cost increases for platforms, and encourage job creation.
Potential Impact of Reducing Contribution Percentages
De la Cruz explained that the current percentages have proven effective in allowing digital platform companies to maintain their business model without capital contraction or flight due to unfavorable conditions in the country.
He noted that, except for rare cases, companies have not passed on the increased costs to consumers. A decrease in these percentages could force companies to raise their service prices, reducing demand and indirectly affecting workers.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current pilot program for digital platform workers in Mexico? The program introduced contribution percentages of 60%, 50%, and 15% to benefit workers while avoiding cost transfers to consumers.
- Why is the 60% contribution percentage crucial? It ensures a balance between labor inclusion and sector sustainability, adhering to the SCJN’s principle of protecting workers while maintaining job viability.
- What adjustments are planned for the pilot program? After three months, contribution percentages may be altered to build confidence in the sector and encourage job creation.
- What could be the impact of reducing contribution percentages? It might force companies to raise service prices, reducing demand and indirectly affecting workers.
