CDMX Hosts the 50th Anniversary of the Index National Convention

Mexico City will host the 5Oth Index National Convention from Oct. 15 to 18 at the Presidente Intercontinental Hotel. The three-day program will feature conferences and panels with governors, legislators, and ambassadors from the United States, Mexico, and Canada, addressing topics such as technological innovation, automation, cybersecurity, labor inclusion, and female leadership. Networking opportunities, social events, and cultural activities will complement the agenda.

The convention’s presidium included Humberto Martínez, National President, Index; Manola Zavala, Minister of Economic Development, Mexico City; Jael Durán, Director General, National Index; and Juan Elyd Sáenz, Head, Index National Convention Organizing Committee.

Zavala highlighted the maquiladora industry as a cornerstone of Mexico’s economy, noting that it accounts for 62% of exports and supports more than 10 million direct and indirect jobs. “We have moved from low-value exports to advanced production chains, positioning Mexico as a strategic global partner, particularly for the United States. Beyond production we want to be the brain of these ideas,” she said.

Martínez emphasized the sector’s technological advancements, including humanoid and high-tech manufacturing, demonstrating Mexico’s capacity to innovate and remain globally competitive. He added that over 80% of maquiladora investments come from the United States, reflecting strong confidence in Mexico as a strategic investment destination.

Durán underscored the convention as a platform to enhance competitiveness and foster collaboration between companies, authorities, and strategic partners. The event will tackle critical issues such as tariffs, the USMCA review, and global industry challenges while promoting shared prosperity and national development. “We believe in shared prosperity, positioning Mexico as a hub that benefits everyone.”

During the event, it was emphasized that Index Nacional and the Ministry of Economy are advancing IMMEX 4.0 to streamline trade, increase domestic content, promote import substitution, create jobs, and attract investment in strategic sectors such as semiconductors, electronics, automotive, textiles, and technology. Key sectors are participating in working groups to guide the development of a new IMMEX Decree.

Cantú also stressed that Index supports President Claudia Sheinbaum’s Plan México, which aims to attract US$100 billion in FDI through collaboration across manufacturing, services, tourism, academia, business, and government. He added that Index and the Ministry of Economy are reviewing procedures that have slowed investment and job creation, ensuring companies meet requirements efficiently. 

Mexico City was chosen as the host in recognition of its growing relevance as a hub for machinery and manufacturing. The city achieved historic FDI figures in the 1Q25, attracting US$11.8 billion in FDI, including US$800 million in new investments, representing more than 55% of the country’s total. This underscores Mexico City’s reputation as a resilient, talent-rich center for the manufacturing sector.