Overview of Employment Trends in Nuevo León
During the first half of 2023, Nuevo León experienced a mixed employment scenario. While the state as a whole saw an increase of 28,195 new jobs, micro and small businesses faced employment declines. According to an analysis by Coparmex Nuevo León, using data from the IMSS and Data Nuevo León, microenterprises (with 1-5 employees) reported a net loss of 1,962 jobs, and small businesses with 251-500 employees experienced a decrease of 1,436 positions.
Vulnerability of Micro and Small Enterprises
Cecilia Carrillo López, Director of Coparmex Nuevo León, highlighted the vulnerability of micro and small businesses to economic and regulatory changes. She emphasized that without proper support and public policies, these businesses will struggle to maintain their existing employment levels.
Impact of Uncertainty and Potential Labor Reforms
Carrillo López also pointed out that the uncertainty surrounding potential labor reforms, such as reducing work hours, could deter investment decisions and hinder job creation. Despite the declines in certain sectors, Nuevo León still managed to add 28,195 new jobs in the first half of the year.
Sector-wise Job Growth
The growth was primarily driven by medium-sized businesses (51-250 employees) with 10,864 new positions and large companies (over 1,000 employees) that created 14,829 jobs. As of June, the total number of registered workers with the IMSS in Nuevo León reached 1.9 million, marking a 2.2% annual increase.
Regional Variations in Employment
However, 23 municipalities in Nuevo León experienced a net decrease in the number of workers. Monterrey, Escobedo, San Pedro Garza García, and San Nicolás de los Garza saw the most significant reductions.
Sector-specific Employment Trends
The transportation sector suffered the largest net job loss of -543 positions in June. Meanwhile, the manufacturing industry has experienced a decline for three consecutive months, with -3,218 jobs lost in June alone.
Construction Sector’s Positive Impact
On a positive note, the construction industry managed to reverse the employment trend in Nuevo León during the first half of 2023. It generated 15,032 new jobs, demonstrating greater dynamism compared to other sectors.
Call for Legal and Economic Certainty
Carrillo López stressed the importance of legal and economic certainty to ensure continued job growth and prosperity. She expressed concern over the negative impact of US policy decisions, such as tariffs, on Mexico’s productive activities.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the overall employment situation in Nuevo León during the first half of 2023? The state experienced a net increase of 28,195 jobs, but micro and small businesses faced employment declines.
- Which sectors contributed to job growth? Medium-sized businesses (51-250 employees) and large companies (over 1,000 employees) were the primary drivers of job creation.
- How many municipalities in Nuevo León saw a decrease in employment? 23 municipalities experienced a net decrease in the number of workers.
- What is the current total number of registered workers with the IMSS in Nuevo León? As of June, there are 1.9 million registered workers.
- What concerns Coparmex regarding job growth in Nuevo León? Coparmex is concerned about the potential negative impact of US policy decisions on Mexico’s productive activities and emphasizes the need for legal and economic certainty to ensure continued job growth.
