The Brazilian Ministry of Labor and Employment (MTE) has announced yet another postponement of the implementation of new rules governing commerce operations on holidays. Initially set for a previous date, the new regulation will now come into effect at the end of May. This allows additional time for further negotiations between workers and employers, as the government emphasizes its commitment to fostering social dialogue and collective bargaining, which have become pivotal in discussions regarding labor regulations.

The new rule, aimed at regulating the functioning of various types of commerce during holidays, has faced significant pushback from business owners and parliamentarians. With the current delay marking at least the fifth postponement of these rules, it highlights ongoing tensions between the interests of commerce operators who wish to capitalize on holiday business, and the workforce that seeks to establish better working conditions and rights. Critics argue that the constant delays reflect a lack of decisive action on labor issues by the government.

As part of this latest postponement strategy, the government will also form a bipartite commission consisting of 20 members — equally split between representatives of workers and employers. This committee is intended to facilitate a structured dialogue and potentially lead to revised agreements or compromises that impact the business landscape during holidays, ensuring considerations for both economic needs and workers' rights are balanced in future regulations.