Introduction to the Dutch Interest in Mexican Semiconductor Industry
Steven Büter, the representative of the Business Office of the Dutch Embassy in Mexico, explained that companies in this sector are already established in the United States. However, they are also considering expanding into other regions of Mexico.
The Potential of the Semiconductor Industry in Mexico
Büter emphasized, “We see great potential in chips. We believe Mexico has a lot of potential in this area… Our companies are the largest in the world when it comes to chips, and they are already producing in the United States. However, we want to help them establish themselves in Mexico, so there’s a significant opportunity for Mexico in the chip market.”
Current Investment Plans and Collaboration with the Bajío Region
One of the largest companies manufacturing machines for producing chips originates from the Netherlands. Currently, there are investment plans in Tijuana, close to the US market. Büter explained that the business office will connect these companies with opportunities in the Bajío region.
“There are concrete investments in Tijuana, where some companies will be located. However, we want to show them the entirety of Mexico because they usually operate in Phoenix, which is the semiconductor capital, or California. It’s easy for them to reach Tijuana, but we want to introduce them to the Bajío as well because we believe there’s more human talent here. The good thing about the semiconductor industry is that it seeks highly skilled personnel, making salaries attractive for the Bajío,” he expressed.
These companies focus on producing components for the chip industry and are currently identifying potential suppliers through studies.
Through the business office, information is provided to companies so they can understand the Mexican market and investment possibilities. However, the final decision rests solely with the company.
Dutch Investment History in Mexico and Future Prospects
Büter highlighted that Mexico has competitive advantages, making it an attractive investment destination despite uncertainties caused by US tariff policies.
“No matter what—whether it’s tariffs or changes in law, legal matters, or Covid-19—there’s always something to adapt to and overcome. Mexicans and Dutch people share a similar approach: we see opportunities and want to grow,” he said.
In 2024, Mexico received USD 1,881.1 million in foreign direct investment from the Netherlands, marking an 81.2% increase compared to USD 1,038 million in 2023.
The states that attracted the most investment from the Netherlands in 2024 were the State of Mexico, Nuevo León, Coahuila, the Federal District, and Quintana Roo, according to records from Mexico’s Secretariat of Economy.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the interest of Dutch companies in Mexico? Dutch semiconductor companies are interested in expanding their operations into Mexico, taking advantage of the country’s potential and human talent.
- Which regions are being considered for investment? Tijuana is one of the primary locations under consideration, but Dutch companies are also being introduced to the Bajío region due to its skilled workforce.
- What is the history of Dutch investments in Mexico? The Netherlands has a significant presence in Mexican states like Nuevo León and Jalisco, with companies such as NXP operating in the chip sector.
- What challenges does Mexico face for foreign investment? Despite uncertainties caused by US tariff policies and other factors like legal changes or Covid-19, Mexico remains an attractive investment destination.
- How much FDI has Mexico received from the Netherlands recently? In 2024, Mexico received USD 1,881.1 million in foreign direct investment from the Netherlands, an 81.2% increase compared to 2023.
