GENERAL SITUATION IN MEXICO
Weekly Review I April 16, 2025
US - MEXICO PRESIDENTIAL NEWS
US Tech Tariff Exemptions
Background:
The Trump administration granted tariff exemptions on key electronics (smartphones, computers, chips, flat panel displays), mostly imported from China.
• The exemptions apply to both the 10% baseline tariffs on global imports and the reciprocal 125% tariffs specific to Chinese goods.
• Major tech companies like Apple stand to benefit significantly due to their reliance on global supply chains.
Economic and Financial Impact:
• Without exemptions, the price of a high-end iPhone was projected to rise from $1,599 to $2,300.
• Despite recent volatility, U.S. equity markets closed higher; however, gold reached a record high, and 10-year Treasury yields posted their biggest weekly increase since 2001.
• The U.S. dollar declined, signaling diminished confidence in U.S. economic policy and increased demand for safe-haven assets.
US - MEXICO
Macroeconomic implications:
• The exemptions aim to reduce inflationary pressure on U.S. consumers, particularly for essential tech goods.
• They also reflect growing domestic concern over the regressive impact of tariffs on middle-class households.
• Persistent uncertainty in trade policy continues to limit long-term market confidence.
Global Trade Disruptions and Systemic Risk
Apple ramped up production in India and chartered cargo flights to ship up to 1.5 million iPhones to the U.S. ahead of tariff hikes. Despite the relief, U.S.–China trade remains at risk of collapse under a sustained 125% tariff regime.
Global markets responded cautiously: tech and auto shares rose, but growth concerns and monetary instability persist.
SOURCE: REUTERS
US - MEXICO PRESIDENTIAL NEWS
New Security Measures and the appointment of Ron Johnson
Security Agenda
• Mexico’s Security Cabinet reported key operations across several states as part of its National Security Strategy, which includes intelligence strengthening and inter-agency coordination.
• Authorities dismantled drug labs, destroyed over 170 drug plantations, and seized large quantities of fentanyl, weapons, and stolen fuel. Dozens of individuals tied to organized crime were arrested.
• Simultaneously, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued its first environmental law waiver of Trump’s second term, allowing expedited construction of 4 km of border wall in southern California.
• This move bypasses over 20 environmental regulations and drew criticism from environmentalists, who warn of severe ecological damage.
• The decision comes amid declining illegal crossings due to stricter asylum policies and increased Mexican enforcement along the border.
SOURCE: JORNADA
New Representation In Mexico
• The U.S. Senate confirmed Ron Johnson, a retired colonel, former CIA officer, and ex-senator from Wisconsin, as the new U.S. ambassador to Mexico.
• Appointed by President Trump, Johnson previously served as ambassador to El Salvador, where he prioritized migration issues.
• His nomination has stirred controversy due to past comments suggesting potential U.S. military action against drug cartels in Mexico, which President Claudia Sheinbaum firmly rejected.
• Despite tensions, U.S. officials, including Senator Jim Risch, expressed optimism that Johnson’s leadership will strengthen bilateral relations.
• His appointment signals a tougher U.S. stance on security and migration, potentially complicating cooperation with Mexico.
LEGISLATIVE CHANGES AND INITIATIVES
LABOR
• INITIATIVE TO AMEND THE FEDERAL LABOR LAW
Presented by: Dep. Napoleón Gómez Urrutia (MORENA)
Objective: Proposes increasing severance pay from 20 to 90 days per year worked in cases of dismissal, strengthening worker protections and compensation rights.
Status: 2025-04-08 – Published in the Parliamentary Gazette
• INITIATIVE TO AMEND VARIOUS PROVISIONS OF THE ORGANIC LAW OF THE FEDERAL PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION, THE SOCIAL SECURITY LAW, THE LAW OF WORKERS IN THE SERVICE OF THE STATE, AND THE FEDERAL LABOR LAW
Presented by:: Sen. Amalia Dolores García Medina (National List - MC)
Objective: Establish a National Unemployment Insurance system to provide income protection and job training to individuals who have lost their employment or income sources, with eligibility based on prior contributions or caregiving responsibilities.
Status: 2025-04-08 - Published in the Parliamentary Gazette
• INITIATIVE TO AMEND ARTICLE 4 OF THE CONSTITUTION
Presented by: Parliamentary Group of the National Action Party (PAN)
Objective: Mandate the creation of unemployment insurance for all economically active workers over 18 in the formal labor market, providing financial support when they lose their jobs.
Status: 2025-04-09 - Published in the Parliamentary Gazette
LEGISLATIVE CHANGES AND INITIATIVES
INDUSTRY
• INITIATIVE WITH A BILL TO ENACT THE ECONOMIC BOOST AND EMERGENCY LAW
Presented by: Sen. Ricardo Anaya Cortés (LNalPAN)
Objective: This law aims to establish the declaration of an economic emergency as a mechanism to quickly and efficiently address a contraction in the country’s economic activity caused by extraordinary internal and/or external phenomena.
Status: 2025-04-08 - Published in the Parliamentary Gazette
• POINT OF AGREEMENT ON AUTOMOTIVE SECTOR IMPORTS FROM THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA
Presented by:: Deputy José Guillermo Anaya Llamas (PAN)
Objective: Requests the Ministry of Economy to analyze the convenience, feasibility, and timeliness of establishing proposed tariffs on automotive sector imports from the People’s Republic of China, and subsequently recommend corresponding tariff modifications to the Federal Executive.
Status: Published in the Parliamentary Gazette on 2025-04-10.
• INITIATIVE TO PROMOTE THE PRODUCTIVE SEMICONDUCTOR INDUSTRY
Presented by:: Parliamentary Group of the Ecologist Green Party of Mexico (PVEM)
Objective: Promote investment in infrastructure, research, and technological development in strategic sectors and industries linked to technological innovation, information and communication technologies, and the production of semiconductors, superconductors, and integrated electronic circuits.
Status: Published in the Parliamentary Gazette on 2025-04-10.
LEGISLATIVE CHANGES AND INITIATIVES
PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION
• INITIATIVE WITH A BILL TO ENACT THE OFFICIAL IDENTIFICATION LAW
Presented by: Sen. Karina Isabel Ruiz Ruiz (LNalMORENA)
Objective: This law seeks to standardize the recognition of official identification documents in Mexico, ensuring equal access for all individuals to recognized IDs for official and private procedures, complying with privacy legislation.
Status: 2025-04-09 - Published in the Parliamentary Gazette
• INITIATIVE WITH A BILL TO ADD CHAPTER VI BIS TITLED “OF TAXPAYERS AFFECTED BY THE IMPOSITION OF TARIFFS ON IMPORTS”; AND ARTICLE 192 BIS OF THE INCOME TAX LAW
Presented by: Parliamentary Group of the National Action Party
Objective: This initiative proposes a fiscal incentive for income tax taxpayers whose earnings come from exports affected by tariffs imposed by another country. The incentive consists of applying a tax credit equivalent to 30% of the total expenses incurred for tariff payments during the fiscal year, which can be applied against income tax owed. The credit is non-cumulative and valid only while the tariff remains in effect.
Status: 2025-04-08 - Published in the Parliamentary Gazette
NEWS BY STATE
BAJA CALIFORNIA
Grupo FRISA is investing 5.52 billion pesos to develop a new industrial hub in the Tijuana metropolitan area, including two major projects: the Santa Fe Business Park, designed for light industry and logistics with 120,000 m² of leasable space across two phases, and the Banderas Tech Park, offering 11,000 m² of leasable space near the Otay International Port and Tijuana Airport. Both will feature average lease rates of $8 USD per square meter. Additionally, FRISA plans to build 2,300 housing units and community services (retail and social infrastructure) to support workers and their families, with home prices ranging from 1 to 2.5 million pesos. The parks are designed with energy efficiency and sustainability in mind, aiming for LEED and EDGE certifications, and the Burdeos housing project is being co-developed with RUBA.
SOURCE: INMOBILIARE
SONORA
The “Bilateral Analysis: Mexico–United States” event, held at the KINETEC industrial park in Sonora, served as a high-level networking platform to strengthen economic ties between Mexico and the U.S., particularly through the lens of nearshoring and regional integration. Led by Iván Barona of FINSUS, and with participation from the American Chamber and business leaders, the gathering emphasized the growing co-production model between the two countries, with Sonora and Arizona as key players. Speakers highlighted how Mexico is gaining ground as a trusted partner amid shifting global supply chains, absorbing market share from China. KINETEC itself, a 47-hectare industrial cluster, was presented as a strategic hub for sectors like aerospace, automotive, medical technology, and clean energy. The message: North America must act as a united economic force to seize today’s global opportunities.
SOURCE: EL SOL DE HERMOSILLO
NEWS BY STATE
NUEVO LEON
Nuevo Leon led automotive investments in Mexico during Q1 2025, attracting $785 million USD across six strategic projects, despite an overall 44.3% drop in national investment compared to the same period last year. Key contributions came from TYASA and Allied Machinery, investing $450M and $250M respectively in steel and high-precision casting—critical components in the automotive supply chain. Nationally, Mexico secured 59 new automotive projects from 13 countries, marking a 15.7% increase in project count, signaling a strategic shift toward diversification amid global uncertainty. The return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency and new tariffs effective April 5—though excluding Mexico and Canada—have pushed companies toward cautious investment behavior, particularly in the electromobility sector.
SOURCE: CLUSTER INDUSTRIAL
CHIHUAHUA
Over 150 applicants took the entrance exam for the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) as part of the selection process for a training program in Taiwan. From a pool of over 460 candidates statewide, only 20 will be selected to receive full scholarships covering training in semiconductors, electric vehicles, and automation, along with airfare, local transport, medical insurance, meals, and housing. The program also offers international certification and networking opportunities in the tech industry. The exam, held at Cenaltec training centers across Chihuahua, tested candidates in math, English, electronics, and soft skills. This initiative, a result of Governor Maru Campos’ 2024 visit to Taiwan, highlights international collaboration to develop local talent, with results expected between May 5 and 9, 2025.
SOURCE: GOVERNMENT OF CHIHUAHUA
NEWS BY STATE
SAN LUIS POTOSI
Governor Ricardo Gallardo Cardona of San Luis Potosí celebrated the expansion of operations by Volex and San Luis Dasung (a subsidiary of MK TRON), marking two of ten new investments scheduled for the state in 2025. These expansions reinforce San Luis Potosí’s position as a strategic destination for investment. Volex’s new plant is expected to create up to 1,500 jobs, while San Luis Dasung’s additional facility will add 250 more. The Governor highlighted ongoing efforts to promote industrial growth through infrastructure modernization, workforce training, and a stable security environment. The ten confirmed investments—totaling approximately 200 million USD—will strengthen key sectors such as manufacturing and home appliances, further diversifying the state’s economic base.
SOURCE: EL ECONOMISTA
NEWS BY STATE
CDMX
On April 14, 2025, the Tecnológico de Monterrey and Mexico City’s Ministry of Economic Development (SEDECO) signed a strategic collaboration agreement to strengthen the innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem in southern Mexico City. The three-year agreement aims to position the Tlalpan District as a hub for health innovation and bioengineering, fostering scientific, technological, and urban development. It outlines joint actions such as creating collaborative workspaces, prototyping labs, and mechanisms for intersectoral governance involving public, private, and academic actors. The initiative also supports science-based entrepreneurship and aims to attract foreign investment and highly skilled jobs. Manola Zabalza, SEDECO’s head, emphasized the goal of generating shared prosperity and attracting over $1 billion in biotech investment. Paulina Campos of Tec de Monterrey highlighted the transformative role of education and community collaboration. This alliance aspires to establish southern Mexico City as a national and global benchmark for inclusive innovation and sustainable urban growth.
SOURCE: MEXICO INDUSTRY
STATE OF MEXICO
In 2025, Grupo Alsea will invest 300 million pesos in the State of Mexico, beginning with the opening of two restaurants in Plaza Sendero, Toluca. This investment will create approximately 400 direct jobs and lead to the opening of new restaurant branches in eight municipalities. Alejandro Razo of the State’s Economic Development Secretariat emphasized this initiative reflects investor confidence and supports regional economic growth. Despite international challenges, such as Mexico-U.S. trade tensions, Alsea’s expansion demonstrates ongoing trust in the Mexican market. CEO Armando Torrado highlighted the importance of the State of Mexico for Alsea, home to its operations center and over 300 business units. With more than 4,700 locations across 12 countries, Alsea is a leader in the restaurant sector. The company also supports local communities through its foundation, offering food donations, inclusive hiring, and social programs. This investment solidifies Alsea’s long-term commitment to economic and social development in the region.
SOURCE: EL SOL DE TOLUCA
INVESTMENT NEWS
NORTH
WEIDMANN
Swiss company Weidmann has inaugurated its new “Cerritos” plant in Saltillo, Coahuila, with an initial investment of $30 million USD and plans to create 750 formal jobs. Specializing in insulation technology for electrical transformers, the plant strengthens Weidmann’s global commitment to electrical innovation, backed by over 150 years of industry experience. During the ceremony, officials emphasized Coahuila’s skilled workforce, strategic location, and security as key factors for the investment. Company leaders highlighted plans for gradual expansion over the next two to three years, including in their existing medical technology facility in Saltillo. The announcement aligns with broader ambitions of international growth, with up to 200 million Swiss francs potentially earmarked for global projects.
SEOJIN MOBILITY
Seojin Mobility inaugurated its plant in Escobedo, Nuevo León, with an investment of USD 160 million and the creation of 300 direct jobs. It will manufacture components for electric motors. The second phase is expected to be completed by 2028, with an additional USD 140 million investment.
CENTRAL MEXICO
SCHAEFFLER
Schaeffler announced an investment of 21.5 million dollars for the construction of a modern Innovation Center in Huejotzingo, Puebla. This facility will employ 420 professionals specialized in engineering.
SOURCES: CLUSTER INDUSTRIAL, MEXICO INDUSTRY, MEXICO NOW
PRODENSA INSIGHTS
NEARSHORING WORKFORCE MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS: A SMARTER WAY TO SCALE
As companies expand into Mexico, labor strategies are evolving. Nearshoring workforce management programs go beyond traditional HR outsourcing—offering a turnkey model for recruiting, compliance, and retention that’s tailored to the realities of cross-border operations.
This approach minimizes risk, ensures alignment with Mexico’s labor laws, and helps companies build loyal, productive teams from day one. With bilingual recruiters, compliance experts, and access to top-tier talent, companies gain speed and peace of mind as they grow their footprint in North America.
RULES OF ORIGIN: ARE YOU OVERPAYING TARIFFS?
Many manufacturers in North America unknowingly leave money on the table by failing to meet rules of origin requirements under the USMCA. These rules determine whether a product qualifies for reduced or zero tariffs—and getting it wrong can mean costly penalties and higher duties.
From the automotive sector to electronics, compliance depends on tracing where your components come from and how much transformation occurs during production. A proper origin analysis could unlock significant savings and boost competitiveness.
