Key Facts and Context
Nuevo León, a Mexican state known for its industrial prowess, has solidified its position as the second-largest recipient of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Mexico. In the second quarter of 2025, Nuevo León attracted $3,032 million in FDI, accounting for 8.8% of the total national investment, marking a 31.6% annual growth according to data from the National Registry of Foreign Investments by Mexico’s federal Secretariat of Economy.
Comparison with Other Regions
- The Ciudad de Mexico topped the list, receiving $19,312 million (56.4% of total FDI in the first half of 2025) with a 36.2% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
- The State of Mexico followed closely in third place with $2,249 million (6.6% of total FDI), also experiencing a 31.6% growth.
United States: Nuevo León’s Primary FDI Source
According to the report “United States Foreign Direct Investment in Mexico,” published by Mexico’s Secretariat of Economy in May 2025, the United States is Nuevo León’s primary FDI source. The Ciudad de Mexico hosts the most U.S. companies in Mexico (8,408), followed by Nuevo León with 2,752.
Between 2006 and 2024, cumulative U.S. investment in Mexico reached $245,784 million, with $16,748 million in 2024 alone (44.5% of total FDI). The primary sectors for this investment were manufacturing, real estate services, and wholesale trade.
During this period, Nuevo León became the second-largest recipient of U.S. FDI in Mexico, accumulating $22,665 million (9% of the national total), with a significant focus on machinery and equipment manufacturing, where it leads the country.
Impact and Relevance
Luis Javier Cendejas Meneses, President of COMCE Noreste, highlighted that due to the relocation of companies, Mexico attracted $36,872 million in FDI last year and registered investment announcements worth $110,000 million, with 45% originating from the United States. Nuevo León accounts for approximately $57,309 million in investment announcements, followed by Chihuahua, Coahuila, Tamaulipas, and Durango.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: Who is Luis Javier Cendejas Meneses and why is he relevant?
Luis Javier Cendejas Meneses is the President of COMCE Noreste, a regional organization promoting economic development in Northeastern Mexico. His recent comments highlight the significance of Nuevo León’s role in attracting FDI, particularly from the United States.
- Q: What makes Nuevo León an attractive destination for FDI?
Nuevo León’s industrial strength, particularly in machinery and equipment manufacturing, positions it as a key player in attracting FDI. Its strategic location and well-developed infrastructure further enhance its appeal to foreign investors.
- Q: How does the U.S. contribute to Nuevo León’s FDI?
The U.S. is the primary source of FDI for Nuevo León, accounting for 9% of the total national investment between 2006 and 2024. The manufacturing sector is a significant focus for U.S. investments in the region.
