The Significance of the Northeast Region in Mexican Exports
The northeastern region of Mexico is pivotal for the country’s export dynamism, accounting for 44% of Mexico’s total external sales valued at over $240 billion. This region includes Chihuahua (14%), Coahuila (12%), Nuevo León (10%), Tamaulipas (7%), and Durango (1%). Nuevo León, however, attracts the most foreign direct investment.
Potential Risks Ahead of T-MEC Review
With uncertainty and a politically charged environment in the United States, particularly regarding tariffs, there’s a risk that automotive sector rules of origin could become stricter. Currently, regional content value is around 70%, but it might rise to 85% of the vehicle’s value, requiring components to originate from the region to avoid tariffs when exporting to the US.
Strategic Moves Amidst T-MEC Review
Mexico must act strategically and avoid improvisation, especially in chapters like Artificial Intelligence and Semiconductors, currently dominated by Taiwan (80%). The US is developing chips in Arizona, so Mexico should highlight critical supply chains to prevent disruptions.
The Importance of IMMEX Program Companies
Companies under the Industria Manufacturera, Maquiladora y de Servicios de Exportación (IMMEX) program will play a crucial role in the upcoming T-MEC review or renegotiation.
According to INEGI, there were 6,551 registered entities in this scheme as of May: 5,234 manufacturing and 1,317 non-manufacturing (agriculture, fishing, commerce, and services). Together, they generated over 3.2 million jobs (more than 90% in manufacturing) and reported income of 691,123 million pesos, mainly from manufacturing activities.
Employment Concentration in Nuevo León
Employment is concentrated in Nuevo León (12.7%), Chihuahua (12.3%), Baja California (12%), Coahuila (8.6%), and Tamaulipas (7.6%). Nuevo León alone operates 724 IMMEX establishments generating over 383,000 direct jobs, equivalent to 20% of the state’s labor force.
Strengthening Supply Chains and Fiscal-Financial Perspective
IMMEX companies represent a key actor as they account for 38% of the value of reviewed imports by authorities in 2023. This necessitates strengthening compliance processes, constant updates, and certifications like IVA and Operator Economic Authorization.
Topics such as changes in VAT refunds, state subsidies, and fiscal policy will be addressed at the IMMEX 2025 Forum with experts from SAT and international firms.
SAT’s Master Plan for Regulatory Compliance and Revenue Increase
Aldo Francisco Arévalo, director of the Fiscal-Finance Committee in Index Nuevo León, explained that the Servicio de Administración Tributaria (SAT) is developing a Master Plan to facilitate regulatory compliance and boost revenue.
