Juárez Manufacturers Warn of Workweek Reduction Effects
The proposal to gradually reduce Mexico’s workweek from 48 to 44 hours has raised concerns among business leaders in the border region, who say the measure could pose significant challenges for manufacturing plants and maquiladoras operating in Ciudad Juárez.
Representatives from the industrial sector said that although the reduction in working hours aims to improve workers’ quality of life, it would require operational adjustments that could increase production costs. Under the new framework, companies would need to hire additional staff or invest in greater automation to maintain current production levels without affecting delivery schedules to export markets.
“This change will force us to review our internal processes,” said one business leader, who warned that small and medium-sized companies, in particular, could face financial difficulties in absorbing these adjustments.
The manufacturing industry in Ciudad Juárez has already faced employment challenges, with job losses concentrated in the manufacturing and construction sectors during 2025, according to regional data.
The discussion is taking place as part of a broader national debate over reducing the workweek to 40 hours, promoted by the federal government and supported by some unions and lawmakers. While the reform seeks to ensure that workers do not see a reduction in their income, it has also encountered resistance from employers, who argue that the transition will require significant investment and gradual adjustments to production processes.
Among the potential effects cited by specialists is the need to expand payrolls to compensate for fewer working hours, which could increase labor costs and related expenses such as uniforms, transportation, and benefits.
As dialogue continues among government authorities, unions, and business chambers, leaders of Ciudad Juárez’s maquiladora industry say they are closely monitoring the situation and are calling for clear implementation mechanisms and support measures to prevent negative impacts on local competitiveness and employment.
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