GENERAL SITUATION IN MEXICO
Weekly Review I September 17, 2025
US - MEXICO
US-MX Relationship Developments
High-Level Engagement & Security Cooperation
• Mexico–US relations intensified in September with frequent direct communication between President Claudia Sheinbaum and U.S. officials.
• U.S. Ambassador Ronald Johnson noted Donald Trump has spoken with Sheinbaum “more than with any other leader,” underlining the strategic weight of Mexico in Washington’s foreign policy.
• President Sheinbaum formally requested from Senator Marco Rubio the extradition of two individuals involved in the 2014 Ayotzinapa case, signaling Mexico’s intent to link bilateral security cooperation with sensitive justice issues.
• The request highlights Mexico’s strategy of leveraging close U.S. ties to advance domestic legal processes while reinforcing collaboration on rule of law and accountability.
US - MEXICO PRESIDENTIAL
NEWS
US Supreme Court & Tariff Policy
• The U.S. Supreme Court announced it will hear arguments in November on the legality of Donald Trump’s global tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
• Lower courts previously ruled Trump exceeded his authority, as tariff power resides with Congress.
• For Mexico, IEEPA tariffs represent a double-edged tool:
Advantages: Quick to implement without lengthy investigations.
Drawbacks: Vulnerable to judicial reversal and policy shifts.
• In contrast, Section 232 tariffs (steel, aluminum) require national security investigations, making them slower to implement but harder to overturn.
• A Supreme Court ruling against IEEPA tariffs could force the U.S. to refund billions in duties, potentially reshaping trade flows, negotiations, and Mexico’s export strategies.
SOURCES: EL ECONOMISTA, INFOBAE, BBC
Mexico–Canada Cooperation Ahead of Carney Visit
• Kevin Brosseau, Canada’s “fentanyl czar,” met with Roberto Velasco, head of Mexico’s North America Unit.
• Talks focused on strengthening joint efforts against fentanyl trafficking and reinforcing cooperation on public health challenges.
• Discussions also advanced bilateral and regional agendas ahead of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s September visit, including investment opportunities and North American integration.
LEGISLATIVE CHANGES AND INITIATIVES
LABOR
• INITIATIVE WITH DRAFT DECREE TO AMEND ARTICLE 123 OF THE POLITICAL CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED MEXICAN STATES, REGARDING MATERNAL AND CHILD CARE RIGHTS RELATED TO MATERNITY LEAVE
Presented by: Dep. María Magdalena Rosales Cruz (Gto – MORENA)
Objective: Extend maternity leave for women workers to 16 weeks. State congresses will have 60 days to adjust their local legislation to comply with the new provisions.
Status: 2025-09-09 – Published in the Parliamentary Gazette
• INITIATIVE TO AMEND ARTICLE 63 OF THE FEDERAL LABOR LAW
Presented by: Dep. Petra Romero Gómez (Plur –MORENA)
Objective: Guarantee workers a minimum 45-minute break during continuous work shifts.
Status: 2025-09-09 – Published in the Parliamentary Gazette
TELECOMMUNICATIONS
• INITIATIVE WITH DRAFT DECREE TO AMEND AND ADD VARIOUS PROVISIONS OF THE FEDERAL COPYRIGHT LAW, THE FEDERAL PENAL CODE, AND THE FEDERAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND BROADCASTING LAW
Presented by: Sen. Jesús Lucía Trasviña Waldenrath (BCS – PT)
Objective: Establish exclusive rights over individuals’ digital personal traits—including face, voice, body, and other biometric identifiers—requiring prior, informed, and verifiable consent for their use, reproduction, or digital imitation.
Status: 2025-09-09 – Published in the Parliamentary Gazette
LEGISLATIVE CHANGES AND INITIATIVES
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
• INITIATIVE WITH DRAFT DECREE TO AMEND AND ADD VARIOUS PROVISIONS TO THE GENERAL LAW ON HUMANITIES, SCIENCES, TECHNOLOGIES, AND INNOVATION, REGARDING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Presented by: Dep. Anayeli Muñoz Moreno (Plur –MC)
Objective: Define Artificial Intelligence as any system exhibiting intelligent behavior by analyzing its environment and acting autonomously to achieve specific objectives.
Status: 2025-09-09 – Published in the Parliamentary Gazette
FINANCIAL
• INITIATIVE WITH DRAFT DECREE TO REPEAL SECTIONS OF ARTICLES 2 AND 2-A OF THE SPECIAL TAX ON PRODUCTION AND SERVICES LAW
Presented by: Sen. Imelda Margarita Sanmiguel Sánchez (Tamps – PAN)
Objective: Repeal the rates and fees of the Special Tax on Production and Services (IEPS) applied to the sale or import of automotive fuels and fossil fuels.
Status: 2025-09-09 – Published in the Parliamentary Gazette
TRANSPORT
• INITIATIVE WITH DRAFT DECREE TO AMEND ARTICLE 74 TER OF THE LAW ON ROADS, BRIDGES, AND FEDERAL MOTOR TRANSPORT
Presented by: Dep. Leonicio Alfonso Morán Sánchez (Col – MORENA)
Objective: Authorize the Ministry of National Defense, through the National Guard, to remove vehicles from circulation while in transit if they fail to meet the minimum safety standards
Status: 2025-09-09 – Published in the Parliamentary Gazette
NEWS BY STATE
BAJA CALIFORNIA
The Mexican government has granted Baja California the concession for the Punta Colonet port, located 240 km from the U.S. border, aiming to position it as a strategic gateway to the North American market and ease congestion at Los Angeles and Long Beach ports. The project, covering 2,769 hectares and set for phased construction from 2026 to 2035, includes a deep-draft terminal, industrial and logistics zones, and modern automated infrastructure. Expected to boost Mexican Pacific exports by over 35%, create about 30,000 jobs, and drive growth in manufacturing, mining, and logistics, it will also bring social benefits through improved education, health, services, and regional connectivity. Designed under sustainable guidelines, Punta Colonet aspires to become a world-class hub and a major driver of Baja California’s economic and social development.
SOURCE: CLUSTER INDUSTRIAL
SONORA
The Congress of Sonora participated in the “Sonora Productiva: Boosting the Maquiladora Industry” forum, aimed at analyzing challenges and opportunities for the sector and strengthening coordination with the state government. Sonora was highlighted as a national leader in manufacturing, with over 490 maquiladoras generating more than 160,000 direct jobs, supported by state policies that attract foreign investment and drive economic growth. The event gathered legislators, state officials, industry leaders, and business representatives, reaffirming the state’s role as a strategic hub for national and international investment.
SOURCE: CONGRESS OF SONORA
NEWS BY STATE
CHIHUAHUA
Chihuahua reinforced its position as a technological and industrial leader with the first Artificial Intelligence Forum: Success Stories in Chihuahua, organized by Index Chihuahua’s Technology Committee. The event featured three keynote conferences—on AI and RPA (Empresys), AI applied to HR optimization and real-time production (Sarik), and predictive maintenance software (Dinformatica21)—demonstrating real applications of AI in manufacturing. State Innovation Secretary Ulises Fernández highlighted AI as a strategic tool for economic growth and competitiveness, while Index Chihuahua President René Espinosa emphasized its tangible impact on transforming production systems. Beyond showcasing innovation, the forum provided a platform for dialogue, reflection, and networking, reaffirming the commitment of government, industry, and business leaders to accelerate digital transformation and position Chihuahua as an international benchmark in Industry 4.0.
SOURCE: MEXICO INDUSTRY / TU INTERFAZ
NEWS BY STATE
NUEVO LEON
Nuevo León’s Labor Secretariat launched free training courses in electromobility to prepare students, workers, and teachers for the rapid transformation of the automotive industry. The program, available both online and in-person, offers participants practical knowledge on electric vehicle technologies and the opportunity to earn certification as Electromobility Specialist Technicians, boosting their competitiveness in the labor market. Authorities highlighted electromobility as a strategic area for the state, given its strong automotive sector and new investments in clean energy and electric vehicles. Registration is open from September 8–27, with courses running from September 29 to November 24, as part of the government’s push to expand job opportunities, drive innovation, and support sustainable mobility.
SOURCE: EL FINANCIERO
COAHUILA
The Government of Coahuila, led by Governor Manolo Jiménez, formally established the Investment Promotion Committee in coordination with Mexico’s federal Ministry of Economy, creating a permanent public-private dialogue platform to accelerate decision-making, oversee key infrastructure, and monitor investment projects. Jiménez highlighted teamwork among civil society, private sector, and government as the state’s “magic formula” for success, while federal representative Carlos Alfonso Candelaria recognized Coahuila’s proactive leadership. The committee will address strategic priorities including development of the Central and Carbonífera regions, resolution of AHMSA’s situation, road modernization, passenger rail, expansion of the Piedras Negras international bridge, CFE contracts for coal producers, livestock projects, and shale gas exploitation. Business leaders and officials agreed on the importance of federal-state collaboration to strengthen Coahuila’s economy and reinforce its role as one of Mexico’s strongest industrial states.
SOURCE: GOVERNMENT OF COAHUILA
NEWS BY STATE
GUANAJUATO
The Foro de Proveeduría Automotriz 2025 held in León, Guanajuato, brought together about 6,000 suppliers and 500 buyers, generating an economic spillover of around 15 million pesos and business opportunities estimated at US$2 billion. With 3,000 suppliers from Guanajuato (including 100 from León), the event underscored the region’s shift from a traditional shoe-industry base into a major automotive manufacturing hub. Highlights included 2,800 business meetings, 465 exhibition stands, and the debut of a Japan Pavilion among international participants. The forum also featured the E-Summit Challenge, where university students showcased self-designed vehicles, reinforcing the importance of young talent in sustaining competitiveness and innovation in the automotive sector.
SOURCE: LIDER EMPRESARIAL
NEWS BY STATE
MEXICO CITY
Mexico City is investing heavily in mobility and infrastructure upgrades around the Azteca Stadium ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The projects aim to improve accessibility in the southern part of the city, benefiting both residents and visitors beyond the tournament. Key initiatives include the modernization of the Huipulco, Taxqueña, and Universidad CETRAMs with a combined investment of 45 million pesos, improving accessibility ramps, lighting, and sidewalks for 1.2 million daily users. Metro Line 2 is undergoing a comprehensive overhaul, including rehabilitation of 32 trains, upgrades to substations and stations, and modernization of passenger information systems, with investments exceeding 1.7 billion pesos. Additionally, a new 13.2 km Trolleybus Line 14 will connect Metro Universidad with CETRAM Huipulco, enhancing service to 15 neighborhoods in Coyoacán with an investment of 180 million pesos. These works are part of the “World Cup City” plan, ensuring modern, safe, and efficient infrastructure long after 2026.
SOURCE: LA PRENSA
STATE OF MEXICO
Amazon, Mercado Libre, and GEODIS announced investments exceeding $1.1 billion (21 billion pesos) to strengthen the logistics sector in the State of Mexico, generating more than 6,000 jobs. The announcement was made within the framework of the new Investment Promotion Committee, reflecting the state government’s strategy to attract and safeguard investments. Amazon will expand operations with a new logistics center in Lerma and a Disaster Relief Center in Tepotzotlán, creating 1,300 jobs in addition to its current 10,000-employee base in Edomex. Mercado Libre will build Latin America’s largest Cross Dock in Cuautitlán and expand facilities in Tultepec and Cuautitlán, generating 5,000 new jobs. GEODIS will open a new distribution center in Tultepec, adding 147 jobs to its 2,000 existing positions in the state. Authorities highlighted that logistics already contributes 7.5% to the state GDP and employs over 660,000 residents, consolidating the State of Mexico as a logistics hub of national importance.
SOURCE: MEXICO INDUSTRY
INVESTMENT NEWS
NORTHERN MEXICO
STEELFORM
Steelform, a Swiss-American company, has begun construction of a new plant in Pesquería, Nuevo León, with an investment of 60 million dollars and the creation of more than 100 formal jobs in the state. This project will strengthen the automotive supply chain and reinforce foreign investment confidence in the region.
CENTRAL MEXICO
SOPREMA
The Canadian company SOPREMA, specialized in construction solutions, announced the launch of its new project in San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, with an investment of 272 million dollars. The company, which will be located in the San Miguel Business Park, is scheduled to begin operations in October 2025.
MUBEA
The German company Mubea has inaugurated a new plant dedicated to the production of precision steel tubes, with an investment of 60 million dollars. Through this expansion, the company will create 200 jobs.
HELLA
Hella has invested 15.4 million dollars in the opening of a new plant focused on the production of electronic power steering systems. This expansion will create 123 new jobs.
DIEHL
Diehl Aviation has started operations at its new plant located in the PyME Industrial Park in El Marqués, with an investment of 50 million dollars and the creation of 600 highly specialized jobs.
COCA COLA
Coca-Cola announced an investment of 85 million dollars to expand its Jugos del Valle – Santa Clara plant in Lagos de Moreno, Jalisco. The project includes the installation of two new production lines focused on non-carbonated beverages, juices, and nectars.
SOURCES: CLUSTER INDUSTRIAL, MEXICO INDUSTRY
PRODENSA INSIGHTS
WHY “AVERAGE WAGES” IN MEXICO CAN BE MISLEADING
When researching labor costs in Mexico, many executives turn to ChatGPT or public data for a quick answer. While useful for orientation, relying on generic averages can lead to costly mistakes when planning multimillion-dollar manufacturing operations.
In our latest blog, we explore why “average wages” don’t tell the full story—and why real, market-validated data is essential. From regional labor culture differences and outdated datasets to hidden costs like benefits, ChatGPT numbers often miss the nuances that matter most for building a competitive workforce strategy in Mexico.
• See how Prodensa’s proprietary salary data—sourced from 100+ active manufacturing operations—compares to AI-generated benchmarks.
• Learn why benefits and regional context can increase costs far beyond base pay.
• Discover how real labor intelligence helps you attract talent and stay competitive.
FACTORY MEXICO: WHY GLOBAL MANUFACTURERS ARE EXPANDING SOUTH OF THE BORDER
Rising costs in Asia, supply chain risks, and the need for faster delivery are driving global companies to rethink where they manufacture. For many, Mexico has become the clear alternative.
In our latest guide, we explain why building a factory in Mexico is a strategic move—and how to do it right. From proximity to the U.S. and trade benefits under USMCA, to cost competitiveness and access to a skilled workforce, Mexico offers a compelling case for nearshoring.
• Explore Mexico’s key industrial regions and what makes each unique
• Learn the compliance essentials: IMMEX, VAT certification, labor rules, and permits
• Follow The Mexico Journey®—our proven 5-step process for launching factories successfully
VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO EXPLORE OUR FEATURED BLOG POSTS, EBOOKS, AND CASE STUDIES PRODENSA.COM/INSIGHTS