Spanish Trade Unions Push For Shorter Work Week Despite Business Concerns

Trade unions in Spain are leading protests to urge an agreement between the government and businesses to reduce working hours. Despite technological advances that might support this change, employers fear higher costs. The government offers bonuses to small businesses to encourage the shift, but employers remain skeptical.

Trade unions led protests across Spain on Thursday, demanding a reduction in working hours amid employer concerns about rising costs. Union leader Unai Sordo asserted that Spain's economy can handle this shift without compromising pay or productivity.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's administration is advocating for a 2.5-hour cut in the 40-hour workweek. They propose incentives for small businesses to mitigate the changes' impact.

The European Union aims to close its productivity gap to keep pace with global rivals. Despite skepticism from business owners, Labour Minister Yolanda Diaz suggests fewer working hours could boost Spain's productivity, traditionally lower than that of other EU countries.

(With inputs from agencies.)