Uruguay Construction Sector Agrees to Gradual Workweek Reduction, Setting Precedent

A significant pre-agreement in Uruguay's construction sector will gradually reduce the standard workweek from 44 to 40 hours, potentially influencing labor negotiations across other industries. The deal, reached between construction business representatives and the National Union of Construction and Affiliates (SUNCA), marks a milestone in labor relations.

Richard Ferreira, president of SUNCA, stated that the reduction will be implemented progressively, starting with one hour less per week next year, aiming to reach the 40-hour mark by 2030. He expressed satisfaction with the agreement, noting it reflects a substantial portion of the workers' demands. This initiative aligns with a long-standing call from the PIT-CNT union confederation for reduced working hours without a loss in wages.

The agreement is seen as setting a crucial precedent. While the PIT-CNT has advocated for a general legal modification to shorten workdays, the construction sector's success suggests that sector-specific negotiations might be a more feasible path. José Lorenzo López, the PIT-CNT's general secretary, indicated that pursuing individual sector agreements could be faster than navigating the legislative process for a nationwide law.

Ferreira expressed hope that this agreement will encourage other sectors to pursue similar reductions. The government, through the Ministry of Labor and Social Security, has supported discussions on reducing working hours. Alejandro Ruibal, president of the Chamber of Construction, acknowledged the complexity of the issue but pointed to international examples in countries like Canada, the United States, Mexico, Colombia, Chile, and Brazil, where construction workweeks have been shortened.