Working Hours Decrease in Russia — Labor Market Shifts

For the first time in three years, the average working day length in Russia has decreased. According to Rosstat, in the first quarter of 2025, the average working day was 7 hours and 32 minutes. This is four minutes, or 0.1%, less than the same period in 2024.

Experts attribute this change to a rebalancing in the labor market. Previously, labor shortages had increased workloads for employees. Now, the number of part-time workers is growing, and employment has become more stable.

Analysts note that in 2025, reverse trends are emerging — wage growth has slowed down, and labor shortages are now more regional than nationwide. As a result, companies are adopting new approaches: instead of raising wages, they try to retain staff by offering benefits such as reduced workloads.

Interestingly, the longest working hours are recorded in the fishing industry, passenger transport, metal mining, and healthcare. The shortest are seen in water and air transport, coal mining, and furniture production.

Economists view the decrease in working hours not only as an economic sign but also a social indicator that suggests improved working conditions. In a time when work-life balance is increasingly important, this trend in Russia may serve as an example for other countries. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!