AGUASCALIENTES, AGS. – Mexico has established itself as a key country in international trade, which has grown over the last 30 years, in which Aguascalientes continues to consolidate itself as a benchmark in economic development, exports and advanced manufacturing. 

At the 30th Mexican Foreign Trade Congress of the Mexican Business Council for Foreign Trade (COMCE) , Sergio Contreras , executive president of the organization, highlighted the transformation that Mexico has experienced in recent decades in the commercial field. He pointed out that since the signing of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 1994, Mexico has managed to position itself as the twelfth largest economy in the world and the ninth largest exporter.

He added that in 2023, Mexican foreign trade reached 593 billion dollars (mdd), representing 74% of the national GDP, with 80% of exports coming from manufacturing.

Contreras Pérez also highlighted the importance of quality in Mexican products and the key role of technological innovation , mentioning the use of artificial intelligence and robotics in logistics processes.

In this context, María Teresa Jiménez , governor of Aguascalientes, highlighted her state’s leadership in sectors such as clean energy and advanced manufacturing.

“We are a strategic state for international trade and investment. The two largest railway networks on the continent pass through here, and we have connections to the main ports on the Atlantic and Pacific,” he explained.

Esaú Garza de Vega , Secretary of Economic Development, Science and Technology of Aguascalientes, indicated that the economic dynamism of the region is not only based on attracting investments, but also on strengthening exports through productive projects.

For his part, Francisco Cervantes, president of the Business Coordinating Council (CCE) , highlighted the role of sectors such as the automotive and microprocessor technology sectors , where Mexico is positioned among the world leaders.

He also called for continuing to take advantage of the potential of the country’s young workforce , highlighting the low rate of formal unemployment and the need to continue training human talent for export.

“Our economy is known for its openness and dedication to foreign trade,” he said.

Along these lines, Sergio Contreras also called for strengthening the economic unity of North America , highlighting that Mexico has been, in the last two years, the main commercial partner of the United States.

Furthermore, in a context of economic growth, Contreras recognized the relevance of Mexican talent in STEM areas (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) , with Mexico being the seventh country with the most graduates in these disciplines, which positions the country to continue leading in innovation and international trade.

Valentín Diez Morodo: Pillar of Mexican foreign trade

During the event, Comce awarded recognition to Valentín Diez Morodo, honorary president, highlighting his fundamental role in the development and consolidation of Mexico’s foreign trade .

Sergio Contreras highlighted that, over three decades, Diez Morodo has been a key figure in promoting foreign investment and opening new markets for the country , consolidating Mexico as a relevant player on the global stage.

“Mexico has the potential to rise to leadership positions in the future. It is not just a question of economic growth, it is a question of legacy, and what better example than the legacy, vision and leadership of Don Valentín Diez Morodo. His dedication and commitment have been fundamental in building Comce and the country,” said Contreras.

For his part, Francisco Cervantes also highlighted the legacy of the honorary president, recalling that in the early years, before the free trade agreements, Diez Morodo was one of the pioneers in opening paths for Mexican companies abroad , especially in the beer sector, leading Mexico to become a world leader.

“Valentín, besides being a great businessman, is a friend whom I greatly admire. His work has been crucial in positioning Mexico in global trade,” said Cervantes.

Luis Rosendo Gutiérrez , Undersecretary of Foreign Trade, also dedicated a few words to Valentín, mentioning that his career is an example for the new generations of Mexican businessmen.

“Our country needs more figures like him, who with vision and work have built an impressive legacy,” added Gutiérrez.

In this regard, Don Valentín Diez Morodo thanked the recognition from Governor María Teresa Jiménez, thanking the union that made the country’s growth possible.

“Receiving this important recognition is not only a source of great personal satisfaction, but is also an opportunity to reflect, recognize and thank all those people, organizations and public officials who, throughout these three decades, have contributed with their effort, vision and commitment to make Comce and Mexico the country of opportunities that it is today,” he said.

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