Background on Key Figures and Context
The Mexican construction sector has been experiencing fluctuations, with eight consecutive monthly declines in production value before a recent uptick. The Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Geografía (INEGI) reported that the production value of construction companies increased by 0.7% in March compared to February, marking an end to the eight-month downward trend.
Public and Private Investment Trends
During March 2025, public works related to transportation, such as road and railway projects, saw a 4.8% increase compared to February. This growth is attributed to the commencement of public investments, particularly in transportation infrastructure. The sector anticipates further momentum in the second half of the year with the construction of passenger trains.
In contrast, private investments dedicated to building residential, industrial, commercial, and service buildings continue to face uncertainty. In March, these investments experienced a 0.9% monthly decline, following a 1.1% increase in February.
CMIC President’s Perspective
Luis Méndez Jaled, President of the Mexican Construction Industry Chamber (CMIC), expressed optimism about a gradual sector recovery post the federal government changeover. He acknowledged that construction projects typically slow down at the end of a six-year term but highlighted encouraging short-term prospects due to announced public works plans, especially in passenger train construction.
Employment Trends in the Construction Sector
Regarding employment, total personnel in construction companies remained unchanged from February but experienced an annual decline of 9.5%. INEGI’s report also mentioned that worked hours in construction companies increased by 0.1% compared to the previous month.
- Dependent Employees: Worked hours advanced by 0.1%.
- Independent Contractors: Worked hours decreased by 4.2%.
On an annual basis, worked hours declined by 11.3%.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main news? The production value of Mexican construction companies increased by 0.7% in March, ending an eight-month streak of declines.
- Which sectors are experiencing growth? Public works related to transportation, such as road and railway projects, have seen a 4.8% increase in March compared to February.
- What challenges does the private sector face? Private investments in residential, industrial, commercial, and service buildings continue to be affected by uncertainty.
- What is the outlook for the construction sector? CMIC President Luis Méndez Jaled is optimistic about a gradual sector recovery, driven by upcoming public works plans.
- How are employment trends in the construction sector? Total personnel remained unchanged from February, but worked hours increased by 0.1% in March compared to the previous month. Annually, worked hours declined by 11.3%.
