Inversión Urgente: Clave para el Nearshoring en México
The nearshoring phenomenon, the relocation of manufacturing companies from Asia to North America, presents an unparalleled opportunity for Mexico. It is estimated that this phenomenon could generate up to $520 billion in industrial foreign direct investment (FDI) for the country in 2032. As of February 2024, 245 companies have been identified with plans to set up in Mexico. However, to fully capitalize on this opportunity, Mexico needs to invest significantly in infrastructure.
A crucial investment for the future
According to estimates by the Mexican government, more than $400 billion in infrastructure investment will be required by 2032 to fully capture the benefits of nearshoring. This investment would be allocated to various sectors:
- Transport: $250 billion is needed to upgrade the country’s network of roads, ports and airports. This is critical to streamlining the movement of goods and reducing logistics costs.
- Water: Demand for water for industrial use will increase by 34% to 54% over the next eight years, requiring investments of up to $27 billion in water infrastructure.
- Energy: Electricity generation needs to increase by up to 53%, requiring investments in the electricity sector of up to $79 billion.
- Industrial parks: An estimated $48 billion will be needed for the construction of new industrial parks.
- Housing and services: Industrial growth will also boost demand for housing and services, requiring additional investments in urban infrastructure.
A call for joint action
The magnitude of the investment required in infrastructure presents a significant challenge, but also an opportunity for collaboration between the public and private sectors. Mechanisms that attract private investment in infrastructure projects, such as Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), need to be established.
Nearshoring: a promising future
If Mexico manages to invest adequately in infrastructure, it will be in an ideal position to capitalize on nearshoring and generate significant economic growth. This will translate into job creation, rising wages, and greater well-being for the population at large. Nearshoring, together with modern and efficient infrastructure, can be the key to a prosperous future for Mexico.
In conclusion, nearshoring presents a historic opportunity for Mexico, but it requires substantial investment in infrastructure. If the country manages to overcome this challenge, it will be able to reap the economic and social benefits of this phenomenon in the years to come.
