Background on Beatriz Hernández Rojas and Coparmex Querétaro
Beatriz Hernández Rojas, the local president of Coparmex (Confederation of Business Chambers) in Querétaro, Mexico, has expressed concerns about the proposed reduction of work hours from 48 to 40 per week. Her organization represents numerous micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (Mipymes) that account for 7 out of every 10 jobs in the region.
Government’s Announcement and Coparmex’s Response
The federal government, led by President Claudia Sheinbaum, has announced a phased implementation of the 40-hour workweek. While Coparmex acknowledges this gradual approach, Hernández Rojas has called for benefits to be extended to all members of the economic and social development chain, including Mipymes.
Challenges Faced by Mipymes
Hernández Rojas recognizes the progress made with the increase in the minimum wage but highlights ongoing challenges such as labor informality, gender gaps, and productivity shortfalls. She advocates for a new labor model based on tripartite dialogue, digitalization, flexibility, shared responsibility, and continuous training.
Impact on Service Sector Companies
Lorena Muñoz Altamira, president of the Querétaro Chamber of Commerce, notes that some service companies already operate with 40-hour workweeks. However, security service providers might face significant adjustments due to the proposed changes, potentially requiring increased workforce and substantial equipment investments.
Muñoz proposes a thorough analysis of the implications that reduced work hours will have on labor conditions and benefits. The government has initiated dialogue forums involving workers, businesses, and unions to implement the 40-hour workweek gradually starting May 1, Labor Day.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is Coparmex Querétaro’s stance on the proposed reduced work hours? Coparmex Querétaro, led by Beatriz Hernández Rojas, supports the gradual implementation of a 40-hour workweek but emphasizes the need to protect Mipymes from potential risks.
- Which sectors might be affected by this change? The service sector, particularly security service providers, could face significant adjustments due to the proposed reduction in work hours.
- What challenges do Mipymes currently face? Mipymes in Querétaro, represented by Coparmex, are dealing with labor informality, gender gaps, and productivity shortfalls. They advocate for a new labor model focusing on tripartite dialogue, digitalization, flexibility, shared responsibility, and continuous training.
- How is the government addressing this transition? The federal government, under President Claudia Sheinbaum, has initiated dialogue forums involving workers, businesses, and unions to implement the 40-hour workweek gradually.
