Background on the Consejo Coordinador Empresarial (CCE)
The Consejo Coordinador Empresarial (CCE) is a prominent organization representing Mexico’s private sector. Composed of the Consejo Mexicano de Negocios and six other key members, including Coparmex, the Association of Banks of Mexico, and Concamin, along with seven permanent invited members, the CCE was established in 1976 by Juan Sánchez Navarro. Its creation was a direct response to the populist, authoritarian, and state intervention policies of President Luis Echeverría.
CCE’s Shift Under López Obrador
Under President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, the CCE transformed from a platform for private sector representation into an organization that served as a “subsecretariat of presidential flattery.” Many CCE leaders held political and partisan positions, with Manuel J. Clouthier, a PAN presidential candidate, being a notable example.
López Obrador’s rise to power led to the suppression of independent voices, the annihilation of autonomous bodies, and the co-optation or placement of compliant individuals in various positions. Despite this, CCE managed to maintain a connection with the president through Alfonso Romo’s intervention, which promoted Carlos Salazar Lomelín, a distinguished Nezahualcoyotl entrepreneur and López Obrador confidant.
However, the relationship between Salazar and López Obrador eventually fractured when the CCE president demanded that the head of state cease labeling businesspeople as “bad” and “corrupt.” In an attempt to survive under López Obrador’s authoritarian regime, business leaders may have overindulged the president, ultimately harming their interests.
José Medina Mora Icaza: A New Era for CCE
Today, the private sector aims to regain its voice through José Medina Mora Icaza, the former Coparmex patronal union president and current unity candidate for the CCE’s upcoming presidency (2025-2028). Medina Mora is well-positioned to bring firmness without unnecessary confrontations with the presidency.
The private sector’s decision to reclaim its representativeness is crucial, as it seeks a critical, negotiating, and well-mannered voice to advocate for private sector perspectives on various national agenda topics. Medina Mora’s leadership could effectively counter the current CCE administration’s complacent and approving stance towards government actions.
Importance of a Critical Private Sector Voice
As López Obrador’s authoritarian advance continues, the private sector’s ability to regain a critical voice is more important than ever. This newfound assertiveness will enable the private sector to advocate for its interests during crucial moments and ensure that its perspectives are considered in shaping Mexico’s future.
