Durango Attracts World-Class Investment With MLS Project

Multinational company MLS México, a global provider of LED lighting solutions, announced a US$261.7 million investment to develop an industrial and technology complex in the La Laguna region, specifically in the municipality of Gómez Palacio, Durango. According to the state government, the project is expected to generate 3,500 direct jobs and further position Durango as an emerging hub for advanced manufacturing and technology.

The announcement was made by Durango Governor Esteban Villegas, who said MLS’s decision reflects the state’s competitiveness, including access to skilled talent, energy infrastructure, logistics capabilities, and institutional support for productive investment.

The development will be carried out in three phases. The first phase is scheduled to begin operations in February 2026 and will create about 200 direct jobs. The second phase will take place between 2026 and 2027, focusing on the expansion of production infrastructure. The final phase, planned for 2028 through 2030, will consolidate a High-Volume Engineering and Development Center aimed at strengthening the complex’s technological and innovation capabilities.

During the event, MLS Global Vice President Liu Bruce said the Gómez Palacio plant will be the company’s most important operation in Mexico. He noted that the goal is to position La Laguna as a production and technology development center capable of serving not only the US market but also expanding operations within Mexico.

Gómez Palacio Mayor Betzabé Martínez highlighted the coordination among different levels of government that made the investment possible, as well as its positive impact on job creation and regional economic development.

The MLS project includes the construction of a modern manufacturing plant, an industrial park and an engineering center, strengthening local supply chains, creating specialized jobs and promoting the transfer of technological knowledge in the state.

Durango’s government said the investment is part of a broader strategy to consolidate the state as an attractive destination for international capital and as a national benchmark in advanced manufacturing, particularly in high value-added sectors such as LED technology.

Durango Announces Unprecedented Infrastructure and Investment Projects 

MBN reported that the state's government has announced unprecedented infrastructure and investment projects which are outlined under Villegas’ results report. These achievements commemorate his third year in office, highlighting the state’s transformation into a major economic hub.

The centerpiece of the announcement is the El Tunal II Dam, described as the most important infrastructure project in decades. With an investment exceeding MX$4.5 billion (US$240.7 million), the dam will supply water to industry, agriculture and urban areas, while also reducing flood risks across the region.

“These works represent the life, health, and future for our people,” Villegas said, emphasizing the support received from the federal government led by President Claudia Sheinbaum.

Durango’s economic strategy is anchored in major initiatives such as Agua Saludable para La Laguna (Healthy Water for La Laguna), new agricultural water networks, and the attraction of international companies. In total, projects under development represent nearly US$8 billion in investment, generating more than 20,000 direct jobs and 80,000 indirect jobs.

Two strategic projects were underscored: Fermachem’s US$1 billion green fertilizer plant in Lerdo and Fermaca Network’s US$3.5 billion data center in Durango City, expected to be the largest of its kind in Latin America.

“Cooperation between both levels of government demonstrates that with political will and long-term vision, the dreams of generations become reality,” Villegas said.

Durango a Pole of Investment Attraction

Durango has welcomed 28 new companies, diversifying industrial activity across multiple regions. In the state capital, firms including Coficab II, LS E Mobility, Daws Durango Sur, Grupo Aeroportuario OMA, Leoni, Arauco, Guadiana Logistic Park, Farmacias del Ahorro, Cofatech, Multipak, Johnson Controls, and Tim Hortons are expanding their operations.