Brazil debates 40‑hour workweek and reveals millions exceed legal limits

The Brazilian government is reconsidering the standard 44‑hour weekly work schedule, proposing a reduction to 40 hours without wage cuts. Industry estimates from the National Confederation of Industry indicate the change could cost up to R$ 80 billion and raise production costs, especially for micro and small enterprises that operate on thin margins.

Labor Minister Luiz Marinho reported that in February 2026, 37.11 million Brazilian workers were employed for more than 41 hours a week, including nearly 2 million who worked over the legal 44‑hour limit. The country had 62.19 million active formal jobs, split between 47.97 million private‑sector and 13.81 million public‑sector positions. The data also showed a rise in young workers aged 18‑24, adding 1.21 million jobs over the past year.