Background on the Development Poles and Their Significance
The Mexican government has approved 14 new Economic Development Poles for Well-being (Podecobi) and is currently evaluating four additional ones, according to the Secretariat of Economy. These additions will join the nine already operational and the two currently under bidding, bringing the total to at least 41 if all planned poles are approved. There will be a pole in each of Mexico’s federal entities.
Who are the Podecobi and Why are They Relevant?
Podecobi, or Economic Development Poles for Well-being, are strategically delineated territorial areas equipped with specific infrastructure, targeted tax benefits, and administrative facilitation. Their purpose is to stimulate economic activity in key sectors outlined by the Plan México. The plan aims to foster development in strategic regions, promote productive linkages and integration of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), increase national content, and generate shared prosperity through the economic and social impacts of Plan México.
Recent Developments and Future Plans
On Thursday, two decrees were published in the Diario Oficial de la Federación (DOF): one granting fiscal incentives and another outlining guidelines for Podecobi. Secretary of Economy, Marcelo Ebrard, reminded everyone that these poles will align with the Plan México.
During a press conference at the National Palace, Ebrard stated that the government intends to have at least one pole in each Mexican state, with varying fiscal incentives based on individual needs.
Currently under evaluation are four poles: ZM Mérida (Yucatán), Lázaro Cárdenas-La Unión (Isidoro Montes de Oca), Guerrero; Zona Carbonífera, Coahuila; and Hermosillo, Sonora. These join the nine poles already operational in the Tehuantepec Isthmus region, those under bidding (Tapachula I and II, Chiapas 11; Teapa, Tabasco), and the 14 newly authorized poles by President Claudia Sheinbaum.
Additionally, 12 poles are in the evaluation phase, suggested by respective state governments. If approved, the total number of Podecobi will reach 41.
Key Benefits and Incentives
These development poles offer targeted tax benefits, such as immediate deduction of 100% for new fixed asset investments and an additional 25% deduction for training programs, as per Action 12 of Plan México. The aim is to encourage investments in strategic sectors and boost the competitiveness of these development poles.
Key Questions and Answers
- What are Podecobi? Podecobi, or Economic Development Poles for Well-being, are strategically delineated territorial areas with specific infrastructure, targeted tax benefits, and administrative facilitation designed to stimulate economic activity in key sectors outlined by the Plan México.
- How many Podecobi are currently operational, under bidding, or approved? There are nine poles already in operation, two under bidding (Tapachula I and II, Chiapas 11; Teapa, Tabasco), 14 newly approved poles by President Claudia Sheinbaum, and four under evaluation. If all planned poles are approved, there will be a total of 41.
- What are the fiscal incentives offered by Podecobi? Fiscal incentives include immediate deduction of 100% for new fixed asset investments and an additional 25% deduction for training programs.
- What is the purpose of Podecobi? The primary goal of Podecobi is to foster development in strategic regions, promote productive linkages and integration of SMEs, increase national content, and generate shared prosperity through the economic and social impacts of Plan México.
