Mexican Industrial Players Should Seize the Moment: CANACINTRA

Q: How does CANACINTRA help the industry to stay up-to-date and competitive?

A: CANACINTRA has maintained its relevance for almost 83 years by consistently renewing and modernizing itself, while continuously training industrialists. The chamber offers permanent training in accordance with the needs of the time and the demands of the industry and market. We always look for the most prepared specialists with the best track records to give these training sessions. These efforts have allowed us to continuously renew our structure through our 76 delegations across the country. The topics on the radar for the industry now are nearshoring and legislative reforms. 

Q: What are the main concerns of CANACINTRA’s members and how does the chamber help them to address these concerns?

A: Recent challenges include adapting to evolving standards, particularly in the petrochemical sector due to concerns over chemical precursors related to fentanyl. The automotive sector also faces frequent regulatory changes. Energy issues are also a major concern, with frequent blackouts caused by outdated and poorly maintained transmission lines. The energy shortage affects both the industry and citizens, highlighting the need for large investments in energy infrastructure.

Mexico is grappling with two major crises: water and energy. Nearshoring could be hindered by these issues. To address this, collaboration between the government and industry is crucial. The government should focus on infrastructure and public policies, while industry should focus on job creation and business development. Mexico has the potential to create high-quality jobs and train skilled labor, particularly in semiconductor manufacturing. States like Yucatan are preparing for this trend with specialized education and international partnerships. Building lasting alliances and commitments with today’s youth is essential to retain talent and meet the high demand for skilled workers.

Q: How is nearshoring impacting CANACINTRA’s operations and how is it adapting?

A: US and Asian entrepreneurs are increasingly seeking our services. Membership has grown due to our commitment and innovation. We offer specialized training for industries such as metalworking, steelmaking, construction, and machinery manufacturing, all with Mexican labor.

To modernize, we are creating a catalog of services to help members leverage our resources and form alliances. This will enhance our competitiveness and offer fair pricing. Internationally, there is rising demand for Mexican products, which are known for their quality. We aim to modernize the sector using technology and innovation, making it easier to access information about companies and services in the metalworking sector. We call on companies to support the national industry, take pride in Mexican-made products, and strengthen the domestic market to create jobs and improve living conditions.

Q: What are CANACINTRA’s expectations for the incoming administration?

A: President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum has extensive knowledge of energy issues, having worked in this field for years. She is expected to focus on renewable energy and public-private partnerships, acknowledging that both the government and private sector must collaborate to advance. There is optimism that Sheinbaum will take a new approach when she takes office. Her team includes experts like Marcelo Ebrard and Juan Ramón de la Fuente, who will play crucial roles in the upcoming review of the USMCA. While progress has been made, including historic increases in the minimum wage, there remain challenges, especially in balancing wage increases with inflation control.

The focus should be on enhancing productivity and creating better conditions, not just relying on social programs. There is a need for initiatives that support youth entrepreneurship and strengthen SMEs, which are vital to the country's economy. 

Q: What advances have been made in increasing women's economic inclusion and what challenges persist?

A: Historically, women have faced discrimination and doubts about their capabilities. But since 2016, CANACINTRA has seen a notable shift and has included more women thanks to the work of a new, younger president. Despite progress, we have not yet achieved gender parity. Efforts are ongoing to legislate gender representation in the chamber. Breaking stereotypes has been challenging, but it is essential to push forward collectively. Leadership and collaboration are essential to ensure that we do not undertake responsibilities alone but with support from others. 

CANACINTRA is now led by a woman for the second time in its history, following Yeidckol Polevnsky’s leadership 22 years ago. Mexicans should work together to advance the country. It is crucial to support each other and learn to ask for help when needed. 

Recent legislation, such as the introduction of gender quotas, has led to significant advances in increasing gender parity in public administration and legislative bodies. As we move forward, we must continue to work together and ensure that women have equal opportunities in all spheres.

Q: What are CANACINTRA's goals for 2024, and what are its plans for 2025?

A: Our objectives for this year and the next are interconnected. We aim to strengthen our industries, grow, and explore new investment opportunities. We seek to become a key ally for the government, acting as a bridge in its efforts. We must remain participative, innovative, and creative.

We face challenges, such as technology and AI, which require adaptation. We want to maintain the prestige that CANACINTRA has held for 83 years, recognized by federal, state, and municipal governments. We will be proactive, presenting clear and constructive proposals. CANACINTRA will continue to engage in Mexico’s transformation and that of each state. We have the capability, preparation, and sensitivity to achieve this. The chamber now has over 300 representative positions in various government bodies and ministries. We want to continue being a key ally for the president of Mexico. 

The National Chamber of the Transformation Industry (CANACINTRA) represents Mexico’s industrial sector and aims to promote competitiveness and productivity among companies, supporting them to remain constantly updated and become socially responsible.