Mexico's Aerospace Industry Eyes New Opportunities With the UK

FEMIA is exploring the potential FTA being negotiated with the UK, recognizing it as a crucial market that could offer significant growth prospects. Luiz Lizcano, Director General, FEMIA, has already initiated discussions with officials from the Ministry of Economy to delve deeper into the possibilities presented by this forthcoming FTA.

According to Kemi Badenoch, British Business and Trade Secretary, the new FTA with Mexico is expected between the end of this year and 2024. However, both countries will need to factor in the potential impact of the elections scheduled for next year, which could affect the pace and progress of the negotiations.

Carlos Robles Álvarez, President, FEMIA, highlights Mexico's aerospace sector's maturity, emphasizing that the country has not only established manufacturing processes but also hosts engineering and design centers. The presence of significant players like GE Aerospace, with its prominent engineering center in Mexico as part of its global operations, contributes to the country's ability to add value to the designs of future commercial aviation and defense projects. 

Robles Álvarez recognizes the growing phenomenon of nearshoring, driven by geopolitical factors, which is now gaining momentum post-pandemic. This trend positions Mexico to capitalize on new opportunities, enhancing its global supply chain presence to become a more prominent player in the aerospace sector at a global scale.

With 80% of the aerospace components manufactured in Mexico being exported to the US, the country has already established itself as a major supplier in the region. Exports also reach Canada, France and Germany, solidifying Mexico's foothold in the aerospace market. Among the 32 states in the country, 19 have a notable presence of aerospace industry companies, including Sonora, Chihuahua, Nuevo Leon, Baja California and Queretaro.

Emphasizing the need for investments and technology transfers to further bolster the aerospace industry's capabilities, Robles Álvarez mentions the importance of attracting new resources and operations. This integration of supply chains and ongoing efforts to strengthen the existing aerospace infrastructure are key strategies to enhance Mexico's position as a crucial supplier to the global aerospace sector.