Introduction
Mexico’s industrial development is progressing rapidly, but regional disparities are becoming increasingly evident. The opportunities arising from nearshoring, manufacturing expansion, and technological transformation are being unevenly captured, deepening gaps in infrastructure, talent, sustainability, and security according to the 2025 edition of Finsa’s Industrial Development Index (IDI).
Concentrated Configuration
The latest report from the industrial developer indicates that Mexico is transitioning towards an increasingly concentrated configuration, where leading states expand their competitive advantages while intermediate entities show progress but fail to close key structural lag.
This phenomenon occurs in a global environment characterized by geopolitical fragmentation, energy disruptions, and heightened competition for attracting strategic investments.
Key Figures and Perspectives
Sergio Argüelles, President and CEO of Finsa, stated that Mexico is at a crucial juncture to define its industrial policy.
“Mexico has a historic window of opportunity to consolidate a balanced, competitive, and aligned industrial policy with the sustainability, innovation, and logistical security challenges posed by the new global order,” Argüelles affirmed.
However, the executive warned that the coming years will be determinant for more regions to capitalize on these trends.
Leading States
The IDI 2025 results show that Nuevo León, Chihuahua, and Coahuila repeat as the top three positions in the national ranking, solidifying their status as Mexico’s strongest industrial poles.
Although the overall score shows minor adjustments compared to the previous edition, the order reflects a mature industrial structure with accumulated advantages difficult to reverse in the short term.
Baja California maintains its fourth position, while the State of Mexico holds fifth place, driven by advances in infrastructure and economic dynamism.
In contrast, Chiapas, Quintana Roo, and Guerrero record the lowest scores due to insufficient industrial development, deficiencies in social indicators, and low levels of manufacturing exports.
Installed Capacity
Nuevo León strengthens its industrial leadership by reaching 17.9 million square meters of industrial space and registering the highest level of new construction, averaging 1.3 million square meters annually over the past five years.
Chihuahua and Baja California remain among the entities with greater installed capacity and growth.
In terms of connectivity, the Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) positions the State of Mexico as the national leader in air cargo.
However, the report anticipates an impact starting from the last quarter of 2025 due to route revocations by the U.S. government.
Argüelles emphasized that in the current context, attracting investment alone is insufficient; it’s crucial to understand where sustainable development can be fostered and generate greater added value.
“The Index has become a strategic tool for evaluating the capabilities of entities, in line with initiatives like Plan Mexico, which aim to articulate a long-term industrial and territorial policy,” said Finsa’s director.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current state of industrial development in Mexico? Industrial development in Mexico is progressing rapidly, but regional disparities are widening. Opportunities from nearshoring, manufacturing expansion, and technological transformation are being captured unevenly, deepening gaps in infrastructure, talent, sustainability, and security.
- Which states are leading in industrial development? Nuevo León, Chihuahua, and Coahuila are the top industrial poles in Mexico, with Nuevo León leading in installed capacity and new construction.
- What challenges do other states face in industrial development? Chiapas, Quintana Roo, and Guerrero face challenges due to insufficient industrial development, deficiencies in social indicators, and low levels of manufacturing exports.
- What role does connectivity play in industrial development? Connectivity, such as the Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA) in the State of Mexico, plays a significant role in industrial development by facilitating air cargo and enhancing logistical advantages.
- What is the significance of Finsa’s Industrial Development Index (IDI)? The IDI is a strategic tool for evaluating the capabilities of Mexican entities in industrial development, aligning with long-term industrial and territorial policies like Plan Mexico.
