Jalisco’s Path to International Agri-Food Power: Emphasizing Excellence and Innovation

Web Editor

June 5, 2025

two people picking strawberries in a field with a red hat on and a red cap on, and one person holdin

Introduction

César de Anda Molina, presidente del Consejo Consultivo para la Innovación, Crecimiento y Desarrollo Sostenible (COINCyDES), stresses the need for Jalisco, a leading agroindustrial state in Mexico, to elevate its status from “agroalimentary giant” to an international powerhouse by focusing on excellence.

Investment in Research and Development

De Anda Molina highlights the importance of investing in research and development for Jalisco’s agroalimentary companies. He notes that these businesses have already advanced significantly, producing not just basic inputs but also establishing well-positioned Jalisco brands globally. However, he believes there’s room for improvement by developing more value-added products.

Branding and Differentiation

The export of Jalisco’s berries and avocados is crucial, but De Anda Molina emphasizes the need for branded products with unique selling propositions. Currently, most Jalisco berries are marketed through California-based brands.

Genetic Development and Specialization

As an experienced aviculturist and former president of the North American Poultry Association and the International Egg Commission, De Anda Molina stresses the necessity for Jalisco to develop its own horticultural genetic lines.

  • Lack of local laboratories for product analysis to meet stringent international market requirements, even surpassing those of the United States.
  • Jalisco’s agri-food sector is already a high-performing athlete, requiring specialization and strategic long-term planning to maintain its leadership.

Building Essential Infrastructure

De Anda Molina explains that Jalisco needs laboratories to analyze products, ensuring compliance with demanding international market requirements, including those of European countries.

Strategic Planning and Long-term Vision

To sustain its leadership, Jalisco requires a team of specialists who can strategically plan and think deeply about each industry’s future, according to De Anda Molina.