Negotiations over Spain's proposed reduction in working hours have reached a critical impasse.

The Spanish government, led by the Ministry of Labor, has been pushing for a reduction from the current 40-hour workweek to 37.5 hours by 2025. However, the Confederation of Spanish Business Organizations (CEOE) remains resistant, citing the need for collective bargaining rather than legislative mandates.

Unai Sordo, leader of the Comisiones Obreras (CCOO), expressed skepticism about reaching a tripartite agreement, as the CEOE feels supported by parliamentary dynamics, particularly the stance of the Junts party.

The Ministry of Labor has issued an ultimatum, threatening to proceed with legislation if no agreement is reached in the upcoming meeting on October 29. This deadlock has prompted unions to prepare for potential protests, while the government considers direct subsidies to small businesses to ease the transition.

The outcome of these negotiations remains uncertain, with significant political and economic implications at stake.