China’s relentless work culture is pushing employees to the brink. According to the latest data from the National Bureau of Statistics, the average weekly working hours in June 2024 reached 48.6 hours, the second-highest in six years.
This surge in working hours is not just a recent trend—it reflects a long-standing pattern. Since 2015, Chinese workers have seen a consistent increase in their weekly working hours, hitting an average of 49 hours per week in 2023, far exceeding global standards.
For context, Mexico tops the global list, with workers clocking in 2,207 annual hours, equating to 276 eight-hour workdays. Other countries with high working hours include Costa Rica (2,171 hours) and Chile (1,953 hours).
On the flip side, nations like Germany and Denmark enjoy much lower averages, thanks to robust social safety nets and labor policies that encourage a healthier work-life balance.
China’s infamous “996” work culture—working from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., six days a week—remains a hot topic, as employees grapple with mounting pressure. This mirrors the intense work cultures seen in some Latin American and Asian countries.
However, with the Chinese government actively promoting sports and fitness, there may be signs of a growing awareness of the need for a better work-life balance.
