The Mauritian labour landscape has undergone a series of transformations in recent months, and it seems another significant change might be on the horizon. In an announcement, the government has recently revealed plans to potentially introduce a 40-hour work week for non-essential sectors. This move could have a profound effect on the lives of both employees and employers across the island.
This shift follows other recent adjustments to the working culture, indicating a potential trend towards enhanced employee well-being and work-life balance. But what exactly does a 40-hour work week involve, and what are the possible results for businesses and workers? Let’s delve into the details and explore the potential implications of this proposed change.
The 40-hour work week is a labour practice where employees work an average of 40 hours over a 7-day period. This model, common in many countries, aims to promote work-life balance and increase overall productivity. In Mauritius, this represents a reduction from the current standard of 45 hours per week for most sectors.
However, it’s worth noting that most employers in Mauritius already operate on a Monday-to-Friday schedule, with weekends off. This means that the shift to a 40-hour week might involve adjustments to daily working hours rather than a change in the days worked.
On January 25, 2025, President Dharam Gokhool unveiled this initiative during the reading of the 2025-2026 Government Program Speech. The announcement has since been followed up with more details from key government officials.
Most recently, on January 26, 2025, Reza Uteem, the Minister of Labour and Industrial Relations, provided further clarification on the implementation of this new policy. Reza Uteem confirmed that the 40-hour work week will apply to workers in various sectors, both public and private.
The Ministry of Labour is currently working on the specifics of implementing the 40-hour work week. While the measure will be widespread, it will not apply to essential services. Workers in sectors such as law enforcement and healthcare will be exempt from this new regulation.
Currently, the standard work week in Mauritius is generally 45 hours. The shift to a 40-hour week represents a significant reduction in working hours. This change may bring challenges, such as:
The shift to a 40-hour work week is expected to have significant implications:
This move aligns Mauritius with international labour standards practised in many developed countries. It represents a progressive step in the nation’s labour policy, potentially enhancing its attractiveness to foreign investment and skilled workers.
The transition from 45 to 40 hours per week is significant and may require a period of adjustment for both businesses and workers. It’s part of a broader set of reforms announced in the government’s program, which includes measures to boost the economy, improve social welfare, and enhance environmental sustainability.
Keep an eye out for further announcements from the Ministry of Labour regarding the implementation of this change, including: