A New Direction for Morelos’ Economy Following Nissan’s Departure
For the first time in its history, the Mexican state of Morelos will host the Science and Technology in Society (STS) Forum for Latin America and the Caribbean, an international event that will gather leading figures from the scientific, technological, and business ecosystem of the region. The forum will take place on December 4th and 5th, 2025, in Cuernavaca.
Background and Context
This announcement comes in the wake of Nissan’s recent closure of its plant in Jiutepec, prompting a shift towards repositioning Morelos’ economy as an innovation and technological development hub. The STS Forum has its origins in Japan, where it has been held annually since 2004 under the initiative of former Japanese Minister Koji Omi. For the 2025 edition, Japan will participate as a strategic partner, sharing its expertise in cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, robotics, semiconductors, clean energy, and disaster prevention.
The historical collaboration in science between the two nations is exemplified by the National Center for Disaster Prevention (Cenapred), built with Japanese support following the 1985 earthquake. Both territories share geographical similarities, as noted by the Japanese ambassador to Mexico during the forum’s presentation in Mexico City.
Relevance and Impact
“I find it very visionary of Morelos’ governor to already be working on the new economy, especially considering Nissan’s recent announcement to concentrate production in Aguascalientes. However, work is already underway for what’s to come,” explained Mexico’s Secretary of Economy, Marcelo Ebrard.
The STS Forum is expected to significantly impact Morelos’ economy, becoming the most important technological event in all of Latin America. With an anticipated attendance of 1,000 representatives from Japanese, European, and Latin American companies linked to technological development, the event will place Cuernavaca at the center of global discussions, according to Morelos’ governor, Margarita González.
Morelos’ Strengths and Opportunities
“We have the highest concentration of research centers and the most researchers per demographic density in the country, which fills us with pride and represents a tremendous opportunity,” said González.
Knowledge, innovation, and patents are among the four key areas for driving Morelos’ economic development in coordination with the Secretariat of Economy, alongside attracting investments from technology-based industries such as pharmaceuticals, concluded the governor.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Science and Technology in Society (STS) Forum? It’s an international event that brings together leading figures from the scientific, technological, and business ecosystems of Latin America and the Caribbean.
- Why is Morelos hosting this event? Following Nissan’s departure, Morelos aims to reposition its economy by fostering innovation and technological development, making the STS Forum an ideal opportunity to showcase its potential.
- What technologies will be discussed at the forum? Attendees can expect discussions on cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, robotics, semiconductors, clean energy, and disaster prevention.
- Who will be attending the event? Approximately 1,000 representatives from Japanese, European, and Latin American companies involved in technological development are expected to attend.
- What are Morelos’ strengths in technology and innovation? Morelos boasts the highest concentration of research centers and the most researchers per demographic density in Mexico, making it an attractive location for technological development and investment.
