México attracts more japanese investment in key sectors like automotive and energy

The 34th Japan–México Business Plenary, organized by the Japan Business Federation (Keidanren) and the Mexican Business Council for Foreign Trade, Investment, and Technology (COMCE), brought together top business leaders and high-level officials to strengthen bilateral economic cooperation. The event highlighted Japan’s growing interest in strategic North American sectors such as advanced manufacturing, electromobility, and the relocation of supply chains, as well as Mexico’s emerging role as a key industrial hub.

During the opening session, Baur Marcus, President of the México–Japan Bilateral Business Committee (CEB), emphasized the importance of reinforcing economic ties between the two countries in the face of a challenging global environment. He was joined by Vice Presidents Diego Ramírez and Raúl Cabral, along with representatives from the Mexico–Korea CEB and the Asia–Oceania Committee.

Key topics discussed included the revision of the United States–México–Canada Agreement (USMCA), the impact of political developments in both México and the U.S., and the direction of tariff policies. Japanese companies expressed a strong interest in expanding their operations in México, citing the country’s strategic location and highly skilled workforce as major advantages.

The second session focused on future technologies, including advancements in renewable energy and electric vehicles. Rodrigo Centeno, CEO of Nissan Mexicana, stated that this transition presents an opportunity to attract tech driven investment, generate high value jobs, and position México as a hub for sustainable development.

Teresa Jiménez, Governor of Aguascalientes, participated in the event and emphasized that Japan is the top foreign investor in her state. In 2024 alone, Aguascalientes received $411 million USD in Japanese investment, bringing the total to $8.816 billion USD since 1999. Additionally, the state’s exports reached a historic record of $14.256 billion USD, with Japan being one of the main destinations.

The plenary concluded with a Joint Declaration reaffirming the business community’s commitment to promoting dialogue, innovation, and shared development. This meeting further consolidates the México–Japan bilateral relationship as a driving force for industrial growth across the Asia-Pacific and North American regions.