Mexico: Gender equality and the new Chair Law (Video Chat)

In brief

In this Quick Chat video, our Labor & Employment team covers two significant reforms that will impact your business operations and compliance requirements in Mexico.


Contents

1. Gender salary gap

Mexico currently faces a gender salary gap of approximately 16%, with Colima, Baja California Sur, and Tlaxcala showing the highest disparities. This gap reflects serious issues of discrimination and workplace violence against women. Addressing this inequality is not only a legal obligation but also a moral imperative to ensure a fair and inclusive workplace.

2. The "Chair Law" – Updated Provisions as of 17 July 2025

Originally announced to take effect in June 2025, the Chair Law has now been clarified and expanded through new provisions issued by the Secretariat of Labor and Social Welfare on 17 July 2025. These provisions aim to safeguard employees' right to rest during work shifts when performing tasks in a standing position. Key updates include:

  • Applicability: The law applies to employees who stand for more than three consecutive hours during their shift. It covers workplaces in the service, commerce, and similar sectors, and—when feasible—industrial establishments
  • Compliance Deadline: Employers must comply by 14 December 2025
  • Fines: Non-compliance may result in fines ranging approximately USD 1,528.91 to USD 30,578.37, which could be imposed per affected employee

Employer obligations

To comply with the Chair Law, employers are required to:

  • Conduct a risk assessment to identify workplace health and safety conditions and determine the ergonomic risk level for each employee working in a standing position
  • Allow periodic rest breaks during shifts
  • Provide chairs with backrests or suitable seating, clearly indicating their location in the workplace
  • Make necessary workplace adjustments to comply
  • Document inspection reports via the Joint Committee on Health and Safety

Watch this episode (recorded May 2025) for practical insights from our team to help your business confidently navigate the evolving landscape of employment law in Mexico.

Speakers: Juan Levario-Gebbia, Maria Jose Casillas-Gonzalez, Marco Rojas-Ponce.

English:

Spanish:


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