CMIC President Luis Méndez Jaled Emphasizes the Need for Regionalized Housing Strategies
Guadalajara, Jalisco. To successfully implement the National Housing Plan, it is essential to regionalize it to address the unique challenges faced by each state in Mexico, according to an interview with El Economista. Luis Méndez Jaled, president of the Mexican Construction Industry Chamber (CMIC), shared his insights during the first Congress of Housing in Jalisco 2025.
Challenges Across Regions
Méndez Jaled explained that while some states, like Jalisco, Yucatán, and Guanajuato, have shown positive responses to the plan, others present complexities. For instance, in Baja California North, the high land prices and speculation make it difficult to implement the plan due to border circumstances.
“Implementing the National Housing Plan is complex; some states are progressing, while others have been more challenging. We cannot yet say that it has been fully activated, but the progress is very good…It depends on the region; for example, in Baja California, Tijuana faces high land speculation and elevated property prices. Other states encounter labor shortages, specialization issues, or supply chain constraints depending on the area,” he emphasized.
Congress of Housing: Fostering Public-Private Collaboration
The Housing Congress, initiated by the president of CMIC Jalisco, Juan Manuel Chávez, aims to encourage collaboration between the private sector and all three levels of government. The objective is to propose comprehensive solutions for each region’s challenges and obstacles.
Méndez Jaled highlighted the significance of hosting these congresses in various regions to gather ideas from all involved sectors and foster teamwork between the public and private sectors.
“I urge all affiliated members to learn the basics of construction models, as there are several available. Some involve building on privately owned land or government-owned plots, while others require contributors to provide the land. As assembly members and Infonavit councilors, we ensure optimal implementation and support such initiatives that blend affordable housing with other sectors. This approach may not yield rapid results, but I am optimistic about its potential,” he expressed.
Housing Deficit in Mexico
According to Luis Méndez, Mexico faces a housing deficit of nearly three million units. Including those in poor condition, the figure escalates to almost eight million dwellings.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main issue discussed? The need to regionalize the National Housing Plan to address each state’s unique challenges.
- Who initiated the Housing Congress in Jalisco? The president of CMIC Jalisco, Juan Manuel Chávez.
- What are the complexities in implementing the National Housing Plan? These include high land prices, labor shortages, and supply chain issues varying by region.
- Why is it essential to involve all sectors in the Housing Congress? To gather diverse ideas and foster collaboration between public and private entities for comprehensive solutions.
- What is the current housing deficit in Mexico? Approximately three million units, with another four million in poor condition.
