Spain’s steel industry has raised concerns over a proposed reduction in the national workweek from 40 to 37.5 hours. The steelmakers’ association, Unesid, argues that the change could severely impact production, increase costs, and threaten thousands of jobs.
Industry leaders warn that shorter working hours would reduce operational flexibility, particularly in energy-intensive sectors like steelmaking. The measure could lead to production cuts, fewer shifts, and plant shutdowns, ultimately affecting domestic supply and increasing reliance on imports.
Supporters of the proposal believe large companies will remain unaffected, but Unesid stresses that reduced working hours will directly impact steel plants. The association cautions that the policy could have long-term consequences for Spain’s industrial competitiveness.
