Rent Freeze Risks, CEMEX Slump, Big Bets on Mobility
By Adriana Alarcón | Journalist & Industry Analyst -
Fri, 08/01/2025 - 09:30
This week in infrastructure, Banamex sounds the alarm on rent control as Mexico City plans to revive a decades-old housing policy. CEMEX reports a dip in sales amid regional slowdowns, while the United States and Mexico commit to a deal to finally fix the Tijuana River’s pollution crisis. In the capital, mobility plans rolled out with the world’s longest urban cable car and a near date for the launch for the Lechería–AIFA interurban train.
Your weekly dose of Infrastructure is here!
Mexico City’s Rent Freeze Plan Could Disrupt Market: Banamex
As authorities consider a plan to slow down rent increases in Mexico City, Banamex warns that previous rent freezes led to urban decay, housing shortages, and depopulation — cautioning that Bando 1 may repeat those same mistakes. The new Bando 1 policy caps rents but risks long-term supply issues, warns the bank.
CEMEX Sales Drop 5.3% in 2Q25; Mexico, US Show Contraction
CEMEX reported a 5.3% drop in 2Q25 sales, citing weak demand in Mexico and the United States. The company warned of tough comparisons with a strong 2024, weather disruptions, and slowing construction. Despite this, net income rose 38%, and gains in EMEA and cost-saving efforts helped offset losses.
US, Mexico Sign US$93 Million Deal to Fix Tijuana River Sewage
The United States and Mexico signed a US$93 million deal to modernize wastewater infrastructure and curb decades-long sewage pollution in the Tijuana River, aiming to reduce health risks and ocean contamination by 2027.
Mexico City to Build World’s Longest Urban Cable Car Line
Mexico City will build the world’s longest urban cable car line, Cablebús Line 4, spanning 11.4km and serving over 65,000 people daily. The project will cut commute times and connect 39 neighborhoods in Tlalpan and Coyoacan to major transit hubs, offering affordable, inclusive mobility in hard-to-reach areas.
Interurban Train to AIFA Airport Set to Launch This December
The Lechería–AIFA interurban train is set to begin operations in December 2025, improving connectivity to Mexico City’s new airport. With tracks already in place, final work on electrical systems is underway. The project promises efficient, sustainable transit for the metro area.
Banco Sabadell Invests US$300 Million in Industrial, Commercial
Banco Sabadell financed over US$300 million in industrial and commercial real estate projects across Mexico in the past year, boosting regional development and attracting over US$500 million in induced investment, particularly in manufacturing, logistics, and mixed-use spaces.
Guadalajara’s Financial Zone Leads Office Market Performance
Guadalajara’s corporate real estate market saw strong recovery in 2Q25, with Class A/A+ office demand driving vacancy to a 10-year low of 10.5%. Fueled by rising FDI and job growth, the Financial Zone and Puerta de Hierro led leasing activity, despite delayed new supply.






