The Ministry of Labour and Industrial Relations in Mauritius has initiated a process to explore the feasibility of implementing a 40-hour workweek. On October 7, 2026, the ministry issued a call for tenders to select a consulting firm that will conduct the study. This move is part of the government's efforts to potentially reform the country's labor laws. The Government Information Service (GIS) announced the tender, which is open to local consulting firms with relevant experience and expertise.
Local consulting firms are invited to submit their proposals, and partnerships with international firms are also permitted. Interested parties can download the tender documents from the eProcurement platform, reference LABOUR/IFB/2026/786. The deadline for submitting proposals is October 26, 2026, at 1:00 PM local time. This step is crucial for the selection of a consultant who will undertake the study.
The opening of bids is scheduled to take place online on October 28, 2026, at 1:31 PM. Representatives from the bidding firms who wish to attend can do so at the conference room on the eighth floor of Victoria House in Port-Louis. This event will mark the beginning of the evaluation process for the tenders submitted.
It is essential to note that this tender process is a preparatory step aimed at selecting a consultant to conduct the feasibility study. The implementation of a 40-hour workweek or any changes to existing legislation have not been announced. The ministry has not disclosed the budget, duration, or detailed scope of the study.
The Ministry of Labour and Industrial Relations reserves the right to accept or reject bids and to cancel the procedure before awarding the contract. This cautious approach allows the government to assess the viability of introducing a 40-hour workweek without making premature commitments.
The study's findings will likely play a significant role in shaping the future of labor laws in Mauritius. If implemented, a 40-hour workweek could have far-reaching implications for employees, employers, and the economy as a whole. The government is expected to consider various factors, including the potential impact on productivity, working conditions, and the overall business environment.
The introduction of a 40-hour workweek is a significant policy consideration that requires careful analysis. By engaging a consultant to conduct a feasibility study, the Ministry of Labour and Industrial Relations aims to make an informed decision that balances the needs of all stakeholders involved.
Key points
- The Ministry of Labour and Industrial Relations in Mauritius has launched a tender to select a consultant for a feasibility study on implementing a 40-hour workweek.
- The deadline for submitting proposals is October 26, 2026, and the opening of bids is scheduled for October 28, 2026.
- The study's outcome will inform potential reforms to the country's labor laws, but no timeline or details have been announced.
