Amid geopolitical tensions, disruptions in supply chains and a growing regionalization of trade, Mexico finds itself in an unprecedented strategic position, specialists agreed during the panel More than logistics: the new exporting Mexico and the reconstruction of its supply chains , held within the framework of The Logistics World Summit & Expo .
Enrique Llaca, Corporate Commercial Director of TRAXION , set the starting point of the debate by emphasizing that Mexico is experiencing a decisive moment within the commercial dynamics of North America.
He emphasized that, beyond the geographical proximity to the United States, the real challenge lies in how to transform the current context into a competitive advantage. In this regard, he stressed that logistics has ceased to be merely an operational support and has become a strategic enabler capable of driving industries forward, provided that supply chains become more efficient, resilient, and collaborative in the face of current challenges.
Mexico has positioned itself as the United States’ main trading partner, a factor that opens up opportunities but also raises the bar. For Luis Aguirre, vice president of the National Council of the Maquiladora and Export Manufacturing Industry (Index) , the challenge is not new, but it is more complex.
“We live in an environment of constant uncertainty, with regulatory changes, compliance requirements, and security challenges. However, logistics has proven to be a resilient and adaptable sector,” he noted.
In that regard, he stressed that the country must capitalize on its strategic location through greater integration of logistics services, evolving towards more complete and higher value-added solutions.
From an industrial perspective, César Pedrero, Director of Commercial Vehicle Logistics at Daimler Truck , stressed that Mexico and the United States must move beyond the logic of competition and embrace a complementary vision .
“If we coordinate properly, both economies can strengthen. The United States has leadership in innovation and capital; Mexico, in costs, flexibility, and efficient manufacturing,” he explained.
However, he warned of a growing risk: the shortage of technical talent. “If we don’t invest in education and training today, we will face a bottleneck in the future ,” he cautioned.
For Ana Paula Ordorica, journalist and international analyst, the real challenge for Mexico is not only to maintain its commercial position, but to consolidate itself as a reliable partner.
“Mexico’s centrality does not equate to protection. What is needed is operational certainty: infrastructure, energy, regulatory compliance, and traceability,” he stated.
Furthermore, he anticipated that the next review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) will be more complex than previous ones, incorporating issues such as supply chain security, rules of origin, and the relationship with China.
Companies: From Reaction to Anticipation
Given this environment, the panelists agreed that companies must adopt a more strategic approach.
Key recommendations include mapping risks and dependence on critical inputs, diversifying suppliers and logistics routes, strengthening customs and documentary compliance, and integrating into chambers and associations to influence the public agenda.
“Getting to the USMCA review with the least possible vulnerability will be key,” Ordorica noted.
According to Pedrero, one of the most relevant changes in the industry is the evolution in the relationship with logistics providers.
“We’ve moved from a transactional relationship to a strategic collaboration. Today we’re looking for partners who share information, technology, and responsiveness,” he explained.
Digitalization, real-time visibility, and operational resilience have become central elements for maintaining competitiveness.
The panel’s consensus was that logistics has ceased to be an operational area and has become a strategic enabler of economic development.
In an environment where disruption is the norm, the ability to anticipate, adapt, and collaborate will determine whether Mexico consolidates its position as a global export hub .
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