Introduction
Despite the promises and rhetoric from both the previous government and President Sheinbaum of the 4T, it is evident that Mexico’s position relative to the United States has deteriorated in various economic progress indicators over the past seven years. This article examines the concerning trend where, since 2018, the gap between the US’s GDP growth and Mexico’s mediocre economic performance has widened.
Economic Disparity Between Mexico and the US
A significant portion of recent US economic growth can be attributed to the rapid investment in infrastructure necessary for artificial intelligence (AI) development, despite erratic and volatile trade policies by the Trump administration. These policies, including increased tariffs on imported goods from other countries, were expected to negatively impact the US economy. In contrast, Mexico has yet to establish a clear vision or policy regarding AI development.
US Focus on AI Development
In 2019, President Trump announced several policy initiatives in AI, including an Executive Order aimed at removing regulatory barriers to enable the US to lead globally in AI. He later presented a Plan of Action with clear policy axes focusing on infrastructure deployment, semiconductor development capabilities, and encouraging trade partners to adopt the minimum technology and regulatory standards promoted by the Trump administration.
In December, the US government issued another instrument warning state governments against implementing their own regulations, as it hinders AI innovation and development. A January 2023 report by the President’s Council of Economic Advisors, titled “Artificial Intelligence and the Great Diverge,” analyzed the rapid growth of AI in the US. The report reviewed investments across various sectors, potential impacts on GDP, labor markets, and economic productivity.
Mexico’s Lack of AI Strategy
The 4T government has failed to communicate a clear vision for AI and Mexico’s role in this field. Moreover, they have not developed consistent public policies to guide the country’s approach to AI-related aspects. These include promoting infrastructure deployment for data centers and energy supply, fostering research and development of advanced semiconductors domestically, contributing to increased computational power, and creating a favorable regulatory environment for AI generative technology in the audiovisual industry.
Instead, the 4T government has only vaguely mentioned limiting AI use, implying fear rather than a proactive strategy.
Conclusion
It is clear that the 4T government lacks a coherent plan for AI development. The Mexico Plan is not the solution, as it does not address the critical aspects needed for progress in this field. Under these circumstances, it is expected that Mexico will continue to fall further behind the US in AI development.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What has contributed to recent US economic growth? A: Significant investment in infrastructure necessary for AI development has driven recent US economic growth.
- Q: How has the Trump administration’s trade policy affected the US economy? A: Despite increased tariffs on imported goods, the US has continued to grow due to its focus on AI infrastructure.
- Q: What is the 4T government’s stance on AI development in Mexico? A: The 4T government has not communicated a clear vision or policy for AI development in Mexico.
- Q: What key aspects of AI development has Mexico failed to address? A: Mexico has not developed consistent public policies for AI infrastructure, research and development, computational power, or regulatory environments.
- Q: What is expected to happen regarding AI development between Mexico and the US? A: Without a coherent AI strategy, Mexico is expected to fall further behind the US in AI development.
