Pharr-COMCE Alliance Strengthens Cross-Border Trade Opportunities for Producers

Liborio Flores, President of the Mexican Business Council for Foreign Trade, Investment, and Technology (COMCE) in Zacatecas, stated that the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between COMCE at the national level and the Pharr Economic Development Corporation (Pharr EDC) in Texas opens new opportunities for Mexican producers to explore international markets.

One of the primary goals of the agreement, Flores explained, is to increase awareness of the resources and opportunities available for Mexican businesses seeking expansion in the United States.

“We want producers in the region to be fully aware of the opportunities to grow in international markets,” Flores added.

COMCE organizes annual trade missions to the Rio Grande Valley, Texas, in search of joint development opportunities. “COMCE’s slogan is to bring the best of Mexico to the world and bring the best of the world to Mexico,” Flores noted, emphasizing that this MoU will facilitate foreign trade between the Rio Grande Valley and Aguascalientes.

Flores highlighted the strategic importance of the Pharr International Bridge as one of the primary border crossings for the agri-food sector, electronics, and automotive parts.

Regional Boost

Flores also revealed plans to expand the alliance between entrepreneurs in Aguascalientes and Zacatecas by establishing a regional COMCE aimed at enhancing business in both states. However, he emphasized that collaboration with each state's economic development departments will be essential to attract investment and expand market reach.

He noted the competitive advantages of Aguascalientes in infrastructure and logistics, along with state-of-the-art facilities, such as eBeam Agroindustrial. This food safety plant is unique in Mexico, and, according to Flores, an additional 25 similar facilities would be required to meet the country’s demand.