Following congressional approval, President Claudia Sheinbaum signed a decree published March 3, 2026, in the Official Gazette, gradually reducing Mexico's workweek from 48 to 40 hours by 2030 without salary cuts. It mandates one paid day off per six worked, redefines overtime pay, and requires secondary law amendments within 90 days, prompting companies like Soriana and Walmart to adjust operations amid projected labor cost increases.
The decree, effective immediately upon publication in the Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF), builds on the constitutional reform to Article 123 approved by Congress in prior months (see earlier coverage). It enforces one full paid rest day per six worked, allowing flexible five-day schedules, and caps overtime at 12 hours weekly (4 daily) paid at 100% premium, with 200% for excess.
Congress must amend secondary labor laws within 90 days, potentially raising company costs by 25%. Businesses are adapting: Soriana CEO Ricardo Martín Bringas said they've restructured with technology for eight months; Walmart's Cristian Barrientos is boosting e-commerce; Bimbo, Coca-Cola FEMSA, Kimberly-Clark, and Gruma are investing in automation and AI for supply chains. IPADE's Alejandro Vázquez Ríos sees productivity gains but warns of 10-25% cost hikes without adjustments.
