Economic Concerns Mount as Brazilian Congress Debates Ending 6x1 Work Schedule

The Brazilian National Congress is currently debating a proposed constitutional amendment to end the 6x1 work schedule, a move government officials claim intends to improve workers' quality of life. However, various sectors warn of significant economic repercussions if the change is approved.

Industry representatives and experts consulted by CNN Brasil express deep concerns about the potential negative impact on productivity and the broader economy. Fernando Guedes, CEO of the Brazilian Chamber of Construction Industry (CBIC), highlighted that Brazilian worker productivity is roughly 23% that of American workers, suggesting that reducing weekly work hours without corresponding productivity gains could worsen the situation.

A study by the Federation of Industries of Minas Gerais estimates that limiting work hours to 40 per week could reduce economic activity by up to 16%, immediately increasing production costs. For example, shoe production costs could rise by 12%, potentially pushing retail prices from R$50 to approximately R$149, severely impacting both domestic consumer prices and export competitiveness, as noted by Junior Cesar Fans of Sindinova.

Commerce and service sectors also criticize the proposal for insufficient discussion about labor market realities and warn that the changes could have devastating effects, as highlighted by Fabio Pina of FecomercioSP. Experts stress that improvements in productivity rely on better education, technology, and workforce qualification, prerequisites that should be addressed before reducing work hours.

Meanwhile, the Senate's plenary is expected to bring this and other constitutional proposals—such as a five-year mandate—to the forefront, underscoring the legislative priority on this issue in 2026.