Brazil moves to cut workweek to 40 hours and end 6‑day × 1 schedule

The third National Meeting of Brazil’s Work Observatory Network, convened by the Ministry of Labor, presented data from the TIC Empresas 2025 survey showing that 93% of Brazilian firms have internet connectivity and an online presence. Ministry officials used the data to back proposals to reduce the standard workweek from 44 to 40 hours and to eliminate the 6‑day × 1 shift pattern, citing potential gains for worker dignity and income. The ministry expressed confidence that the Senate will approve the reform, noting similar reductions in countries such as Chile.

A technical report from the Court of Auditors of Minas Gerais examined 767,371 municipal employment contracts and found that 92.1% already operate within a 40‑hour weekly limit, suggesting the federal reduction will have limited impact on city governments. The analysis highlighted low overtime levels among health workers, teachers and other municipal staff, with only 9.9% of “other” roles exceeding 40 hours.