Energy Workforce Council Urges Mexico to Address PEMEX Debt

The Energy Workforce & Technology Council (EWTC) has formally called on Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to address outstanding payments owed by PEMEX to oilfield service providers. The EWTC, representing over 250 US and global energy service companies, stated that these non-payments are threatening operations, workforce stability, and future investment in Mexico's energy sector.

In a letter delivered to President Sheinbaum, EWTC highlighted concerns from its member companies, which collectively account for more than 60% of PEMEX’s contracted oilfield services work. The Council warned that payment delays, totaling over US$1.8 billion for 2024 and 2025 alone, could lead to service disruptions directly impacting energy production in Mexico. As of the end of March, PEMEX’s current debt with providers sits at MX$404.4 billion, as previously reported by MBN.

Tim Tarpley, President, EWTC, stated that while Energy Workforce members have a long history in Mexico and remain committed to operating there, service providers cannot continue under such financial uncertainty. He urged President Sheinbaum to engage directly with PEMEX leadership and the Secretary of Energy to resolve these issues.

According to the letter, PEMEX owes EWTC companies an estimated US$871 million for services rendered in 2024 that are uncollectible without required COPADES documentation. An additional US$983 million is owed for work completed in 2025, including unpaid and unbilled services. Furthermore, US$2.5 billion in contracted work is scheduled for 2026.

EWTC is requesting immediate action on three fronts: recognition of past debts through the issuance of COPADES to process outstanding invoices, full vendor access to the digital invoicing portal for transparency and accountability, and a clear timeline and payment mechanism to restore operational stability.

Tarpley emphasized that the request is for "fair treatment," noting that these companies have partnered with Mexico for generations, investing in local talent, supporting communities, and helping build the national energy system. He reiterated that continued operation without payment is unsustainable and poses a risk to the country's energy production. EWTC and its members are seeking high-level dialogue to resolve these matters collaboratively and ensure the long-term health of Mexico’s oil and gas sector.