"McAllen Strengthens Economic Advantages": Javier Villalobos

In a move to enhance economic capabilities in Rio South, Texas, the city of McAllen has acquired approximately 1,250 acres (over 505 hectares) for the development of new warehouses and storage facilities. These facilities aim to optimize international trade processes for industries and businesses, whether operating within or outside the United States.

McAllen currently hosts diverse industries, and its workforce is strengthened by expertise, access to universities, quality of life, security, and affordable housing prices, expressed Javier Villalobos, the city's mayor, in an interview with Mexico Industry.

"New warehouse and industrial developments are ongoing in McAllen. We are strategically located with international bridges, airports, and roads offering the best routes for imports or exports. Additionally, we provide incentives; we can find the best location for any type of company," stated Mayor Villalobos.

Opening of New Lanes

He also discussed ongoing projects that will bolster investment attraction, such as the construction of the new McAllen Nearshoring Campus Industrial Park and the opening of new lanes at the Anzalduas International Bridge for cargo units.

Given the rise of nearshoring and the demand for closer manufacturing suppliers, McAllen's relationship with authorities, entrepreneurs, clusters, and business cores in Mexico is crucial.

Villalobos spoke about achieved objectives through working sessions and meetings, reinforcing the workforce, facilitating goods exchange, developing binational infrastructure, and improving customs processes.

Trade Partners

"We cannot comprehend McAllen's economic development without the relationship we have forged with Mexico, mainly with states like Tamaulipas and Nuevo León, which add advantages when a project is about to arrive. They are not just neighbors; they are our trade partners and, more than that, family."

As an example of the binational relationship and prosperity, the mayor mentioned that the expectation is for 2023 to conclude with new records in tax revenue and purchases surpassing the levels of the last two years.

$1.7 Billion in Investment

In recent months, the city of McAllen has made various efforts to attract companies, with Zoho being one of the latest, establishing a software plant through a 90-acre complex, of which "9 or 10 acres will be industrial development, and the rest, green space for recreation," as mentioned by Mayor Villalobos.

Apart from this project, another company is in negotiations to settle, poised to invest $1.7 billion, reflecting in the creation of 1,700 jobs, with 350 positions for engineers. "We are excited to talk about McAllen's future; our goal is that when someone thinks of Texas, it is about coming to this city in South Texas."