Export Growth and Key Sectors
The Secretaría de Economía y Turismo de Puebla reported that the exports of 100 companies located in Puebla City totaled 400 million pesos during the first half of the year, marking a 4% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
Jaime Oropeza Casas: The Municipal Economy and Tourism Chief
Jaime Oropeza Casas, the head of the municipal economy and tourism department, spoke to El Economista about the positive outlook for Puebla’s commerce despite the increased tariffs by the United States in certain sectors.
Oropeza Casas mentioned that, one year into the current administration, there has been a noticeable increase in exports to the neighboring country, particularly in food and auto parts.
Diversifying Export Markets
While the United States remains Puebla’s primary trading partner, Oropeza Casas highlighted efforts to identify other markets such as South America, the Middle East, and Europe. These regions offer short- to medium-term business opportunities for local products seeking diversification.
The 100 companies based in Puebla are classified as Industria Manufacturera, Maquiladora y de Servicios de Exportación (IMMEX), but the number of firms could grow with additional support and training.
Principal Exported Products
- The primary exported products belong to the food sector, including eggs, cookies, bread, and flour.
- Auto parts account for 30% of exports, followed by confectionery with 4 percentage points.
Despite the tariff hikes by the Trump administration, Puebla-based companies export 85% of their goods to the United States. Japan and Colombia follow with 2% and 1.5%, respectively.
Expanding Export Opportunities
Oropeza Casas conducted a diagnostic to compile a list of Puebla-based companies eager to export but capable of fulfilling purchase orders. He noted that fresh and processed foods could find opportunities in South America and the Middle East, with the latter also interested in beverages.
In Europe, Puebla’s manufacturing and equipment companies may see demand for their products.
Identifying and Targeting New Markets
Oropeza Casas emphasized that the potential markets for Puebla’s companies depend on the sector they wish to enter. He pointed out that these markets positively value Mexican-made products, though past attempts to export certain items lacked consistency.
He advised that the threats from President Donald Trump to impose tariffs on Mexico should signal to Puebla’s businesses the importance of diversifying markets and strengthening domestic consumption and local sourcing.
Oropeza Casas highlighted that Puebla’s products carry added value across various sectors, necessitating more promotion to generate sales for upcoming products.
In terms of procurement, he explained that businesses often deal with other companies rather than end consumers, focusing on purchasing raw materials and components.
He added that if more local producers opt for regional sourcing instead of imports, it would stimulate further economic activity.
Oropeza Casas concluded that Puebla’s companies will develop components or products needed by others, thereby increasing business opportunities.
