Walmart Opens US Marketplace to Mexico, Expands Investment

Summary: Mexico’s expanding e-commerce market is driving demand for unified commerce infrastructure that can centralize inventory, order management and fulfillment across multiple digital sales channels. The launch of abierto.io’s WMS/OMS platform, alongside Mercado Libre’s US$4.6 billion investment in Mexico, highlights growing investment in logistics, marketplace integration and AI-enabled operational efficiency, with implications for retailers, SMEs, logistics providers and technology companies participating in the country’s rapidly maturing digital economy. 

Walmart is opening Walmart.com to customers in Mexico, allowing shoppers to access hundreds of thousands of additional products through its US online marketplace as the retailer accelerates international e-commerce growth while investing MX$43 billion (US$2.37 billion) across Mexico and Central America in 2026.

The move makes Mexico the first international market to gain direct access to Walmart.com's expanded assortment through cross-border shipping, giving consumers access to products across apparel, home goods, electronics and other categories that were previously unavailable through Walmart's local e-commerce platforms.

The launch underscores Walmart's broader strategy to expand its marketplace business internationally as retailers increase investments in digital commerce, omnichannel capabilities and cross-border retail operations.

The expansion comes as Walmart de México y Centroamérica (Walmex) prepares to increase capital expenditures by 10% year over year, reinforcing both its physical and digital infrastructure across the region.

Orders placed through Walmart.com will be fulfilled through the company's US logistics network, while international shipping and customs clearance will be managed by third-party carriers. To improve transparency, Walmart said duties, taxes and related fees will be calculated and displayed during checkout, allowing customers to see the full purchase cost before completing an order. The retailer is also offering free shipping on eligible orders of US$35 or more for a limited time, although duties and taxes will continue to apply.

For marketplace sellers, the initiative creates access to a broader customer base without requiring separate operations in Mexico. For consumers, it significantly expands product selection and brand availability beyond Walmart's existing domestic assortment.

Walmart said it plans to expand international shipping to additional markets in the future, signaling further opportunities for global marketplace growth through Walmart.com. As the company broadens its digital reach, it is simultaneously investing heavily in store operations, supply chain infrastructure and technology throughout Mexico and Central America. 

MX$43 Billion Investment Targets Growth

Walmex plans to invest approximately MX$43 billion in 2026, with the largest share directed toward strengthening its physical retail network. According to the company, 42% of the investment will be allocated to remodeling and maintaining existing stores, while 26% will support the construction of new stores and clubs. New locations are expected to contribute between 1.5% and 1.7% to total sales growth in 2026, reported MBN. 

Another 24% of the investment will be directed toward supply chain expansion and modernization through automation, while 8% will support technology initiatives, including data management, digital shopping platforms and automation across stores and distribution centers.

The company also proposed a share buyback program of up to MX$10 billion and a cash dividend of MX$1.16 per share, payable in two installments of MX$0.58 on Nov. 18 and Dec. 9. The investment strategy aligns with Walmart's broader international growth momentum, which continues to be supported by rising digital sales and operational efficiencies. 

International Business Posts Double-Digit Growth

Walmart's international segment reported net sales of US$33.5 billion during 3Q26, representing a 10.8% increase year over year. Operating income for the international business rose 16.9% on an adjusted constant-currency basis, supported by improved e-commerce economics and a more favorable sales mix. International e-commerce sales increased 26% globally during the period.

Walmex remained a key contributor to that performance through geographic expansion and digital initiatives, including El Fin Irresistible promotional campaigns and enhanced delivery services. Growth was also driven by other major international markets. In China, net sales increased 21.8% in constant currency, while digital channels generated approximately half of Sam's Club revenue. In India, Flipkart achieved peak processing speeds of 87 orders per second during its Big Billion Days sales event, providing a significant boost to quarterly results.

Technology continues to play a central role in Walmart's international strategy. More than 40% of Walmart's software applications now incorporate artificial intelligence technologies designed to improve inventory management, operational efficiency and customer personalization. The retailer has also expanded the deployment of automated distribution centers across international markets to accelerate fulfillment and delivery speeds.

While the United States remains Walmart's largest market, the international segment is becoming increasingly important to overall growth. The 10.8% increase in quarterly international sales represents one of the strongest expansion rates across Walmart's global operations in recent years. The company also announced a leadership transition, appointing John Furner, previously Walmart's second-highest-ranking executive, to succeed Doug McMillon as CEO. Both executives began their careers in entry-level store positions.