When providing delivery, transport and remote online services, gig workers in Mexico face a range of work-related costs, including internet plans, clothing and fuel.
WageIndicator's quarterly cost of living data collection shows that fuel remains one of the highest costs (+6.32%) associated with gig work.
Even buying a new car may be out of reach for many, with prices up +10.97% since last year.
An increase in the price of clothing (+12.63% for a skirt, +12.81% for a T-shirt and +14.67% for a jacket) makes it difficult to afford essential items, and remote online workers have a tough time with the price of internet plans and laptops (+9.59% and +34.5% respectively).
For riders who need to stay connected for long periods of time, power banks have also become quite expensive: +37.60% compared to 2023.
Analysing the cost of living in Mexico can help highlight a related issue: the growing concern about the fragile mental health of platform workers: rising work-related costs are adding to their vulnerability, according to recent reports.
The big picture: Platform work in Mexico costs money and mental health
The mental health of platform workers in Mexico is a growing concern, with work-related costs adding to their vulnerability.
Fairwork's latest report highlights that delivery and transport work is both physically and mentally demanding, with traffic conditions and poor customer interaction leading to high levels of stress, anxiety and fear. The rising cost of living and precarious work exacerbate these problems, as workers have to pay taxes and commissions without a minimum wage, or access health services unless they pay for them (around 1,150 pesos per month on a salary of 4,300 pesos, data from 2021).
There are currently around 20 bills affecting platform workers, including proposals on transparency in the way wages are calculated, minimum wages and compulsory social security membership. None have yet been passed.
Of particular relevance is the Minimum Floor Manifesto, presented by 25 workers' collectives in 2022, which aims to include protections in the Federal Labour Code, with dialogue currently underway.
Did you know?
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