As Mexico maintains its position as the United States' top trading partner, the country's industrial and commercial real estate sectors are experiencing growth driven by nearshoring trends. With over $500 million in newly announced investments across strategic locations, including Jalisco, Querétaro, San Luis Potosí, and Nuevo León, the first quarter of 2025 demonstrates Mexico's strengthening position as a prime destination for manufacturing and logistics operations .
Mexico exported goods worth US $131.29 billion to the world’s largest economy in the first quarter, up 9.5% compared to the same period of 2024. In the first three months of 2025, Mexico was again the world´s largest exporter to the United States according to data published by the U.S. Census Bureau on Tuesday. Mexico beat out Canada and China to retain its position as the top exporter to the United States. Canada’s earnings from exports sent to the U.S. increased 7.9% annually in the first quarter to $108.93 billion, while China’s revenue rose 5.1% to $102.65 billion. Mexico’s share of the United States’ $948 billion market for imports in the first three months of the year was 13.8%.
Investment: $250 million
Location: Nuevo León
Project Details: Development of a state-of-the-art intermodal terminal
Impact: Set to enhance logistics capabilities in Northern Mexico
Company Background: Bulkmatic, a leading dry bulk transportation company, continues its strategic expansion in Mexico, leveraging its expertise in bulk trucking, transload, and warehousing solutions .
Odata, a subsidiary of Aligned Data Centers, has officially launched operations at its new data center campus, DC QR03, located in Querétaro, Mexico. This ambitious project represents an investment of over $3 billion and aims to provide a total capacity of 300 megawatts (MW) once fully completed. The first phase of the campus, which began operations in February 2025, currently delivers 200 MW and includes a facility designed to support cloud services and artificial intelligence, with a capacity of 72 MW .
Querétaro has emerged as a significant hub for digital infrastructure in Mexico, with 15 data centers currently operational and projections indicating that this number could exceed 35 in the coming years, driven by investments surpassing $12 billion since 2009 . Odata's CEO, Ricardo Alário, highlighted that the campus has already secured three hyper-scale clients and is strategically positioned to serve both national and U.S. markets, particularly in light of energy restrictions in certain U.S. regions .
The project also addresses energy availability challenges in the sector, with plans for an additional 400 MW expansion, marking one of the largest initiatives of its kind in Mexico . Furthermore, Odata has introduced its patented Delta Cube cooling system, which enhances energy efficiency by directly capturing heat from server racks and can be integrated with hybrid cooling solutions .
Overall, the establishment of QR03 reinforces Querétaro's role as a key data center hub in Mexico, complementing investments from major companies like AWS, Google, and Microsoft in the region .
Suacero, a Mexican company specializing in steel production, is investing 750 million pesos to expand its plant located in Soledad Graciano Sánchez, San Luis Potosí. This expansion aims to double its production capacity from the current 260,000 tons annually. The project is expected to create 550 new jobs, contributing significantly to the local economy .
The CEO of Suacero, José Canales Salazar, emphasized the importance of promoting national production amidst global financial uncertainties and reducing reliance on imports. He highlighted San Luis Potosí's competitive environment, which has attracted over 8.5 billion dollars in investments over the past three years .
Suacero is committed to sustainability, utilizing 100% recyclable scrap as raw material and employing renewable energy sources. The company also engages in environmental initiatives, such as reforestation efforts through its "SUACERO Verde" campaign .
Meor, a real estate developer, plans to invest $1.5 billion in acquiring stabilized industrial parks in Mexico over the next five to seven years. This investment aims to capitalize on the growing trend of nearshoring, which involves relocating production closer to the U.S. market. The company intends to add 1.1 million square meters of gross leasable area across key locations.. This initiative is part of Meor's broader strategy to develop eight industrial parks, enhancing logistics and operational efficiency for businesses in the region.
The auto parts industry is increasingly establishing a presence in Yucatán, a region not traditionally known for automotive manufacturing. In 2024, Yucatán experienced an 8.1% growth in automotive parts production, the highest in Mexico, indicating a significant shift in the region's industrial landscape . This growth is attributed to investments from companies looking to complement their manufacturing processes and export to Central America .
Yucatán's exports of transportation equipment surged by 81.9% in 2024, reflecting its growing role in the automotive and aerospace sectors . The region has attracted $99.8 million in Foreign Direct Investment for transportation equipment manufacturing since 2006, with a notable portion directed towards the aerospace sector .
Key factors influencing this growth include improvements in infrastructure, energy supply, and the development of human capital through partnerships between industry and universities .
In the first quarter of 2025, Baja California attracted US$4 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI), accounting for 16% of Mexico's total FDI during this period. This influx of investment has resulted in the creation of over 19,600 direct jobs in the state. The significant interest from global companies is attributed to the region's competitive and stable conditions.
A notable investment announcement came from Sempra Energy, which plans to invest approximately US$3.5 billion in energy infrastructure within Baja California. Overall, the commerce sector led the national FDI attraction with US$11 billion, highlighting Baja California's crucial role in employment and investment dynamics. The state government credits this growth to effective coordination with various government levels and strategic initiatives aimed at bolstering key sectors in the region .
The industrial real estate sector in Mexico continues to show strong growth potential, driven by nearshoring trends and strategic advantages. Key challenges include:
Need for infrastructure improvements
Limited availability of industrial-zoned land
Increasing demand for Class A facilities
However, the ongoing investments and development projects demonstrate strong market confidence and suggest continued growth in the sector. The combination of strategic location, competitive labor costs, and strong trade agreements positions Mexico favorably for continued industrial real estate expansion.
DiscoveryCRE is Mexico's Premier Commercial Real Estate Liaison Specializing in Nearshoring and Industrial Tenant Site Selection. We help companies make informed SITE SELECTION decisions. Manufacturing and Logistics Operations.
When nearshoring to Mexico, having the right partner makes all the difference. Our team primarily represents industrial tenants and buyers providing expert site selection and facility acquisition for manufacturing and logistics companies across Mexico.
Ready to simplify your Mexico expansion?
USA and Canada Toll free number 1 (800) 603-3460
Mexico Toll Free number 800 099 1437
Guadalajara Telephone number +52 33 3348 2317
Luis@DiscoveryCRE.com
Thank you for reading our edition of the MexicoCRE Newsletter. Stay tuned for more updates and investment opportunities! 🙏
Mexico's Industrial Real Estate Boom: Record Exports, Major Investments, and Strategic Growth
In a remarkable display of economic resilience and growing investor confidence, Mexico's industrial real estate sector continues to thrive amidst record-breaking export performance and significant foreign investment announcements. With exports growing 9.6% in March 2025 and major players like Unilever committing substantial investments, the country's position as a premier nearshoring destination strengthens further, supported by strategic government initiatives and infrastructure developments.
📈 Record-Breaking Export Performance Signals Strong Economic Growth
Mexico's export sector demonstrated exceptional performance in March 2025, with exports growing by 9.6%, showcasing the country's economic resilience and strengthening position in global trade. This growth comes despite recent tariff adjustments, particularly in the automotive sector, highlighting Mexico's competitive advantage in international markets.
Total export value reached a record high for any March in history
Growth driven by manufacturing sector performance
Automotive sector showing particular strength despite tariff adjustments
US-Mexico trade relations remain robust under USMCA framework
💰 Major Investment Announcements
Unilever's Historic Investment
In a significant vote of confidence in Mexico's market potential, Unilever has announced a massive 30 billion peso investment in the country. This investment represents one of the largest commitments by a consumer goods company in recent years and signals strong foreign investor confidence in Mexico's economic future.
Fermaca Dreams' Strategic Investment
Fermaca Dreams has also joined the investment wave, demonstrating continued interest in Mexico's industrial development potential. Their investment adds to the growing portfolio of foreign direct investment in the country's industrial sector.
MEOR's Industrial Park Acquisitions
MEOR has made strategic moves in the industrial real estate market through significant industrial park acquisitions, further consolidating the sector's growth and development potential.
🏗️ New Industrial Development Projects
Tehuacán Industrial Park Development
A new industrial park development in Tehuacán is set to expand Mexico's industrial real estate inventory, adding significant capacity to meet growing demand from manufacturing and logistics operations.
📋 Policy Updates and Government Initiatives
"Plan México" International Launch
The Mexican government has launched the internationalization of "Plan México," a comprehensive economic development strategy aimed at:
Creating 1.5 million additional jobs
Increasing investment to 25% of GDP
Strengthening internal market development
Boosting national production capacity
Enhancing energy and food sovereignty
Automotive Sector Tariff Adjustments
Recent adjustments to automotive sector tariffs have positioned Mexico advantageously, particularly under the USMCA framework. According to Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard, these changes maintain Mexico's competitive edge in the automotive sector, with special considerations for vehicles containing 85% or more USMCA-originating content.
📊 Guadalajara Market Metrics and Construction Pipeline
Current Market Context:
Total industrial inventory: 7.07 million m²
Vacancy rate: 2.98%
Average price: $6.56 USD/m²
Active construction: 693,444 m²
Current Market Performance
Net absorption: 128,146 m²
Pre-leased space under construction: 242,504 m²
Construction pipeline: Over 1.8 million m²
Key Development Corridors
El Salto-Tlajomulco-Ixtlahuacán (ES-TL-IM)
Under construction: 524,446 m²
Future pipeline: 913,193 m²
Zapopan Norte
Under construction: 130,004 m²
Future pipeline: 536,869 m²
🔮 Market Outlook
The combination of strong export performance, significant foreign investment announcements, and robust development pipeline suggests continued growth in Mexico's industrial real estate sector. With low vacancy rates at historic and substantial pre-leasing activity. The implementation of "Plan México" and strategic positioning in global trade agreements further reinforces Mexico's attractiveness as a premier nearshoring destination.
The current market dynamics, supported by government initiatives and private sector confidence, position Mexico favorably for continued industrial real estate growth throughout 2025 and beyond. With over 1.8 million square meters in the development pipeline and strong pre-leasing activity, the sector is well-positioned to meet the growing demand from both domestic and international occupiers.
Mexico's industrial landscape is poised for continued growth, driven by nearshoring trends and strategic advantages in manufacturing. The country's resilience in navigating global trade challenges, coupled with significant infrastructure investments, suggests a promising future for investors and businesses alike. Key factors to watch:
Implementation of new USMCA provisions
Development of regional manufacturing hubs
Evolution of nearshoring trends post-2024
DiscoveryCRE is Mexico's Premier Commercial Real Estate Liaison Specializing in Nearshoring and Industrial Tenant Site Selection. We help companies make informed SITE SELECTION decisions. Manufacturing and Logistics Operations.
When nearshoring to Mexico, having the right partner makes all the difference. Our team primarily represents industrial tenants and buyers providing expert site selection and facility acquisition for manufacturing and logistics companies across Mexico.
Ready to simplify your Mexico expansion?
USA and Canada Toll free number 1 (800) 603-3460
Mexico Toll Free number 800 099 1437
Guadalajara Telephone number +52 33 3348 2317
Luis@DiscoveryCRE.com
Thank you for reading our edition of the MexicoCRE Newsletter. Stay tuned for more updates and investment opportunities! 🙏
Mexico's position as a global investment destination continues to strengthen, as evidenced by its ranking as the world's ninth-largest FDI recipient in 2023 . The country is experiencing an unprecedented wave of private sector investments, with significant developments across technology, manufacturing, and industrial real estate sectors. This surge is reshaping Mexico's economic landscape, particularly in key regions like Jalisco, San Luis Potosí, and the northern manufacturing corridor.
In a significant move for Mexico's manufacturing sector, Mabe has announced a substantial US$668 million investment in San Luis Potosí . This investment, part of a larger US$1.1 billion commitment since 2023, demonstrates the region's growing importance as a manufacturing hub. The project is expected to create 1,500 direct jobs, reinforcing the Bajío region's position as a crucial industrial center.
Amid changing market dynamics and U.S. tariff pressures, Stellantis is strategically shifting its production focus. The automotive giant, which currently manufactures up to 75% of its U.S. market vehicles domestically , is accelerating its pickup truck production at its Saltillo facility. This move comes as automakers navigate the complex landscape of new U.S. tariff policies, which could increase costs for domestic automakers by $107.7 billion in 2025 .
Jalisco is solidifying its position as Mexico's leading technology center with a remarkable investment in advanced technology infrastructure. Spearheaded by Oracle, which has committed to enhancing the region's tech ecosystem, this investment is expected to create 11,500 specialized jobs. This development not only boosts local employment but also positions Jalisco as a significant player in the global tech landscape.
DHL's expansion in Mexico continues with a new distribution center in Jalisco, representing an investment of over 191 million pesos . This development aligns with the growing demand for logistics infrastructure driven by e-commerce growth and nearshoring trends.
FIBRA MTY has achieved a significant milestone by surpassing a $1 billion market cap, with a strong focus on industrial properties in northern Mexico . The REIT's strategic expansion in key markets like Mexicali, Saltillo, and the Bajío area reflects the growing demand for industrial real estate driven by nearshoring activities.
The industrial real estate market in Mexico City continues to evolve, driven by e-commerce growth and increasing demand for logistics facilities . The metropolitan area, along with Guadalajara and Monterrey, remains a focal point for industrial development, particularly in the logistics sector.
The Mexican market is poised for continued growth, supported by several key factors:
Nearshoring Momentum: The trend of companies relocating manufacturing operations to Mexico shows no signs of slowing, with more investments expected in the coming months.
Infrastructure Development: Continued investment in technology and logistics infrastructure will further enhance Mexico's competitiveness as a global manufacturing and distribution hub.
Regional Specialization: Different regions are developing distinct industrial specialties, from tech in Jalisco to automotive in Saltillo, creating diverse investment opportunities .
As Mexico's industrial renaissance gains momentum, now is the time to explore investment opportunities across its diverse sectors. Whether in manufacturing, aerospace, or retail, the country offers unique advantages for businesses looking to expand their North American presence. For more information on specific investment opportunities or to discuss market entry strategies, please contact our team.
Thank you for reading our edition of the MexicoCRE Newsletter. Stay tuned for more updates and investment opportunities! 🙏
Contact Us:
USA and Canada Toll free number 1 (800) 603-3460
Mexico Toll Free number 800 099 1437
Guadalajara Telephone number +52 33 3348 2317
Luis@DiscoveryCRE.com
As Mexico continues to cement its position as a global manufacturing powerhouse, the first quarter of 2025 has delivered remarkable achievements across multiple sectors. With record-breaking export figures, strategic industrial expansions, and transformative infrastructure projects, the country demonstrates remarkable resilience in navigating the current circumstances.
In 2024, Mexico saw foreign direct investment (FDI) reach $36.872 billion, representing a 1.1% increase compared to 2023. Nearshoring, the relocation of production chains to nearby countries, continues to drive FDI inflows, particularly in sectors like semiconductors, automotive, and electrical equipment. Key Points.
FDI Total:
$36.872 billion in 2024, a 1.1% increase from 2023.
Nearshoring:
A major driver of FDI, especially in sectors like semiconductors, automotive, and electrical equipment.
USMCA and Proximity:
Mexico's proximity to the US and the USMCA agreement make it an attractive location for nearshoring.
Incentives:
Mexico has implemented new tax incentives to encourage nearshoring and attract foreign investment.
Mexico's export sector has demonstrated exceptional resilience, reaching unprecedented heights in March 2025. Total exports hit a record $55.52 billion, marking a substantial 9.6% increase compared to March 2024. The manufacturing sector led this growth, contributing 90% of March's export revenue, with non-auto manufactured products showing a remarkable 10.7% increase. Key Statistics:
Q1 2025 export revenues: $149.25 billion (4% YoY increase)
Manufacturing exports in Q1: $134 billion (5.5% YoY increase)
March 2025 trade surplus: $3.44 billion (72.8% YoY increase)
The industrial landscape is witnessing significant expansion as both domestic and international companies strengthen their presence across Mexico:
DHL's Strategic Growth in Jalisco DHL Supply Chain Mexico's new logistics center in Jalisco marks a significant expansion of the company's capabilities, reinforcing Mexico's position as a key logistics hub in Latin America.
Automotive Sector Momentum
San Luis Dasung's operational expansion in San Luis Potosí
PROMA's new plant establishment in Aguascalientes
Yokohama's plant construction progress in Coahuila
These developments are particularly significant as Mexico emerges as a refuge for automotive supply chains, benefiting from USMCA tariff exemptions that protect against the newly announced 25% U.S. tariffs on auto imports.
Mexico's aerospace industry continues its impressive trajectory, positioning the country among the world's top 12 aerospace players. The sector now powers more than 29% of the country's total exports and contributes 3.5% to GDP. The FAMEX 2025 Aerospace Fair showcased this success, attracting 337 companies from 48 countries.
Industry Highlights:
Current valuation: $11.2 billion USD
Projected to double by 2029
Expected exports: Over $10 billion USD in 2024
386 manufacturing companies across 19 states
Major retail players are adapting to changing market dynamics:
KFC's Ambitious Expansion
$75 million investment in infrastructure and expansion
Current presence: 570 locations
Target: 600 stores by year-end
Part of 2,000 LATAM locations generating $2.5 billion annually
Oxxo's Growth Despite Challenges Despite a 1.8% decrease in same-store sales, Oxxo continues its aggressive expansion with 361 new stores opened in the last quarter, approaching the milestone of 25,000 locations.
The inauguration of the Querétaro-Mexico City train represents a significant leap forward in Mexico's transportation infrastructure, enhancing regional connectivity and economic integration. This development comes at a crucial time as Mexico works to improve its logistics capabilities, addressing its position in the World Bank's Logistics Performance Index.
Mexico's industrial landscape is poised for continued growth, driven by nearshoring trends and strategic advantages in manufacturing. The country's resilience in navigating global trade challenges, coupled with significant infrastructure investments, suggests a promising future for investors and businesses alike.
Key factors to watch:
Implementation of new USMCA provisions
Development of regional manufacturing hubs
Progress in digital transformation initiatives
Evolution of nearshoring trends post-2024
As Mexico's industrial renaissance gains momentum, now is the time to explore investment opportunities across its diverse sectors. Whether in manufacturing, aerospace, or retail, the country offers unique advantages for businesses looking to expand their North American presence. For more information on specific investment opportunities or to discuss market entry strategies, please contact our team.
Thank you for reading our edition of the MexicoCRE Newsletter. Stay tuned for more updates and investment opportunities! 🙏
President Claudia Sheinbaum has extended her congratulations to Pope Leo XIV, who on Thursday became the global leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
“We congratulate his holiness Leo XIV, elected by the College of Cardinals as the head of state of Vatican City and spiritual leader of the Catholic Church. I confirm our humanist alignment in favor of peace and prosperity in the world,” she wrote on social media.
Felicitamos a su santidad León XIV, electo por el Colegio Cardenalicio como jefe del Estado de la Ciudad del Vaticano y líder espiritual de la Iglesia católica. Ratifico nuestra convergencia humanista a favor de la paz y la prosperidad del mundo.
— Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo (@Claudiashein) May 8, 2025
Pope Leo XIV, or Papa León XIV as he is known in Spanish, was born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago in September 1955.
He is the first pope from the United States and the second from the Americas after Pope Francis (Jorge Mario Bergoglio), an Argentine who passed away on April 21 after a 12-year papacy.
Prevost became a cardinal in 2023, and first served as a bishop between 2015 and 2023 in Chiclayo, Peru, a country in which he lived and served the Catholic Church for more than two decades. He became a Peruvian citizen in 2015 while retaining his U.S. citizenship, and is a fluent Spanish speaker.
Prevost was elected Pope on the second day of the papal conclave in the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City. A group of 133 cardinals voted, including two cardinals from Mexico: Archbishop of Mexico City Carlos Aguiar Retes and Archbishop of Guadalajara Francisco Robles Ortega.
Mexico has the second largest population of Catholics in the world after Brazil. Mexico’s 2020 census found that almost 78% of Mexicans identified as Catholics.
The bells of the Metropolitan Cathedral in the historic center of Mexico City and the Basilica of Santa María de Guadalupe in the north of the capital were among those that rang after the election of Pope Leo XIV.
“We hope he has a great papacy, that the Holy Spirit guides him and accompanies him during his entire pontificate,” Orlando Pureco, a seminarian, told Telemundo at the Basilica in Mexico City.
Odilia García, a Catholic who was at the Basilica in Mexico City on Thursday, told UNO TV that she hoped that the new pope would “identify” with young people and encourage them to attend church.
A woman identified as María de Jesús spoke to Monterrey television station Info7 before going into the Basilica of Santa María de Guadalupe to pray for Pope Leo XIV.
“I found out that he’s from Chicago, we don’t know him, but we hope that God … enlightens him in order to do things well,” she said.
“We just heard his message and he speaks Spanish very well,” said Jorge, another Mexican Catholic.
“I believes he knows the Latin American mentality and the problem of migration, which I believe will be one of the issues to deal with,” he told Info7.
The Mexican Episcopal Conference (CEM), the official leadership body of the Catholic Church in Mexico, and the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Mexico, both released statements celebrating the election of Pope Leo XIV.
“With great happiness we have received the news that after the fourth session of voting of the elector cardinals, the Cardinal Robert Prevost, Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, has been elected Pope and will take the name Leo XIV, becoming the 267th successor of [St.] Peter,” the CEM said.
“… We invite all the pilgrim people of God in Mexico to offer prayers for the Holy Father and to be happy for the commencement of his papacy,” it said.
In its statement, the Archdiocese of Mexico said it received the news of the election of Pope Leo XIV with “profound happiness.”
En estos momentos en la Basílica de Guadalupe se está llevando a cabo Te Deum por el nombramiento del Nuevo Papa Robert Francis Prevost, León XIV. pic.twitter.com/xxcCYdDr63
— Basílica Guadalupe (@INBGuadalupe) May 8, 2025
“… In the name of our Archbishop, his eminence Cardinal Carlos Aguiar Retes, and of this particular church, we express our profound communion with the new Bishop of Rome,” the Mexico City-based archdiocese said.
“Pope Leo XIV, you are not alone, count on us,” it added.
In addition to President Sheinbaum, a number of other well-known Mexicans reacted to the news of the election of Pope Leo XIV.
“From Mexico we salute with respect the appointment of the Cardinal Robert Prevost as leader of the Catholic Church in the world. Your message of peace, your missionary history and your assumption as Leo XIV gives us hope.”
“With great happiness I greet and congratulate Pope Leo XIV on the commencement of your papacy! From Mexico City we celebrate the beginning of a new papacy with hope and profound respect for your spiritual and political character. May your leadership be guided by compassion, dialogue and the commitment to social justice that so inspired your predecessor.”
“We rejoice with the whole Church, in the hope that the election of Pope Leo XIV brings us. He will confirm us in the faith as the Vicar of Christ and the successor of the Apostle Peter. We commend him to God so that He may enlighten him with the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and so that he may be a faithful witness in the delicate task the Lord has entrusted to him.”
The governor of Nuevo León pointed out that the new pope shares his name with the northern border state he governs.
“EL NUEVO LEÓN XIV, [The new Leo XIV],” he wrote on social media above a video of the pope speaking from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.
Mexico News Daily
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