Sichuan Province Trials 4.5-Day Workweek: Could Flexible Hours Revive Post-Pandemic Productivity?
May 24 — A pilot program in Mianyang, Sichuan Province, proposing a 4.5-day flexible work schedule has ignited fervent debate across Chinese social media, with the topic trending as a “hot search” on Weibo. Local authorities clarified that the policy is encouraged for eligible employers but not mandatory, emphasizing its experimental nature to balance economic recovery and workforce well-being.
Image source: Aicnbc
The proposed 2.5-day weekend model — allowing employees to leave at noon on Fridays — aims to stimulate domestic tourism and consumer spending. This follows similar measures rolled out in over 10 provinces, including Zhejiang, Guangdong, and Fujian, as regional governments seek innovative solutions to rejuvenate post-pandemic economies.
While the concept of compressed workweeks gains global traction, analysts caution that shorter hours could strain businesses, particularly SMEs already grappling with labor shortages and rising operational costs. “Flexibility is a double-edged sword,” noted Liu Wei, a Beijing-based labor economist. “Without tailored implementation, it risks exacerbating productivity bottlenecks or inequities between industries.”
Experts stress that successful adoption requires systemic support, including revised overtime regulations and digital infrastructure to maintain output. The policy also hinges on strengthening foundational labor rights: “Paid leave systems must mature first,” Liu added. “When employees feel their time is valued, businesses see reduced turnover and higher engagement — a win for both productivity and profitability.”
Image source: Aicnbc
As cities experiment with progressive labor models, the conversation reflects a broader shift: redefining “work-life balance” as a economic catalyst rather than mere perk. For now, Mianyang’s trial serves as a litmus test — one that could determine whether shorter weeks evolve from viral trend to sustainable policy.
Original article, Author: Tobias. If you wish to reprint this article, please indicate the source:https://aicnbc.com/884.html
