By Octavio de la Torre,
President of Concanaco Servytur
Recently, I had the honor of having a conversation with the President of Mexico, Dr. Claudia Sheinbaum, where we addressed one of the most urgent challenges for the business sector: the impact on northern border companies committed to our country due to the decree that modifies the conditions of the Programa de la Industria Manufacturera Maquiladora y de Servicios de Exportación (Manufacturing, Maquiladora, and Export Services Industry Program – IMMEX). It was a dialogue of commitment, frank and constructive, in which the president once again showed a receptive and committed attitude to finding solutions that benefit both national companies and foreign companies that invest and care for our country.
Teamwork for Mexico
In this task, Concanaco Servytur, INDEX Nacional, and Canacintra, as institutions rooted in the populations and national structures, are working as a team, aware that our activities are deeply intertwined throughout the country.
Together, our three organizations have the largest territorial structure and represent companies of all sizes, which generate almost all formal employment in Mexico. This coordinated effort seeks to protect the key sectors of our economy, from commerce and services to industry and manufacturing.
The Impact of the IMMEX Decree
The decree, published last December 19, critically affects the northern region of the country, where many IMMEX companies play an intensive role in the integration of value chains.
In a sample of 52 companies, the impact amounts to 35,000 direct jobs and more than 100,000 indirect jobs facing additional costs of up to 2 million dollars monthly per company, jeopardizing their operational continuity.
Additionally, we have highlighted that 100% of the surveyed companies have reported lacking viable national supply alternatives for the restricted inputs.
This represents a challenge that not only impacts companies but also the workers and regions that depend on these economic activities.
Our Commitment to Mexico
During my conversation with the president Claudia Sheinbaum, I also reaffirmed our permanent commitment to eradicate smuggling and piracy, issues we have constantly addressed as organizations. These illegal practices not only affect business competitiveness but also the well-being of thousands of Mexican families.
From our organizations, we will continue to promote strategies to reduce these practices and strengthen formality.
Clear and Concrete Proposals
Together with Canacintra and INDEX, we have presented the following proposals to the federal government:
- A three-month extension for the implementation of the decree, allowing for a more detailed and consensual analysis.
- Intersectoral working tables to review tariff fraction by fraction and minimize negative impacts.
- Recognition of the contribution of IMMEX companies, which integrate global chains, generate formal employment, and promote economic development.
The Strength of Collaboration
The three organizations are led by business leaders who understand the real needs of the country and represent institutions committed to economic and social well-being.
We know that, working together and in collaboration with the federal government, we can protect Mexico’s competitiveness and guarantee a prosperous future for everyone.
A Call to the Future
Mexico is a country full of opportunities, and we can’t allow rushed decisions to compromise its potential. The commitment is clear: let us work together to protect our companies, strengthen our regions, and build a more competitive and just Mexico.
I am convinced that, with the joint effort of our organizations, the government, and society, we will move forward.
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