By Travis Kliever
Updated March 8, 2024

Doing Business in Mexico

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Doing business in Mexico is highly appealing. In North America, Mexico boasts a thriving economy, a skilled workforce, and a strategic position for accessing the North American market. The country is renowned for its quality of life, a strong financial sector, and a well-educated labor force. It is an attractive destination for businesses and investors, thanks to its market-oriented economic structure and abundant resources, spanning from minerals to forestry and renewable energy sources like solar and wind power.

Key Takeaways

Mexico offers strategic location, robust global investment and government-supported economic development for businesses.
Navigating Mexican business culture is essential for successful relationships with colleagues, including relationship building, communication styles & business lunches.
Foreign investors must be aware of legal considerations such as company registration, tax regulations and employment laws to overcome challenges in the market.

Mexico Business Guides

Understanding the Mexican Economy

Mexico’s economy presents a fascinating picture of strengths and challenges. As the 12th largest globally by nominal GDP and a leader in Latin America, it boasts a diversified mix of modern industry, services, and a rapidly growing middle class. Free trade agreements with over 40 countries, including the USMCA, propel its export-oriented engine, making it an integral part of global value chains.

However, beneath the bright surface lie lingering issues. Economic growth has consistently fallen short of its potential, averaging just above 2% annually over the past three decades. This sluggishness translates into significant inequalities, with poverty and informality remaining stubbornly high. Corruption and weaknesses in the rule of law further hamper progress, posing hurdles to investment and hindering productivity growth.

Nevertheless, glimmers of hope exist. Recent administrations have embarked on ambitious reform agendas, tackling corruption, boosting infrastructure, and liberalizing key sectors. The young, tech-savvy generation brings fresh dynamism to the workforce. With its solid macroeconomic fundamentals and strategic location, Mexico is poised for a potential leap forward. If it can address longstanding challenges and capitalize on its strengths, the future of the Mexican economy could be even brighter than its vibrant cultural tapestry.

Key Statistics on the Mexican Economy

Statistic	Value
GDP (nominal)	USD 1.47 trillion
GDP growth (annual)	3.90%
GDP per capita	$11,496.5 USD
Unemployment rate	3.30%
Inflation rate	7.90%
Trade balance	-USD 58.8 billion
Foreign direct investment (FDI)	USD 32.2 billion
Currency (Mexican peso)	MXN 20.73 per USD
Major exports	Manufactures, oil, tourism
Major trading partners	United States, China, Canada, Germany
Poverty rate	3.1% (measured at $2.15 a day PPP)
Human Capital Index (HCI)	0.6

Advantages of Doing Business in Mexico

Foreign companies venturing into the Mexican market can expect numerous benefits. Mexico’s strategic location in North America and sharing borders with the US provides easy access to the US market and other Latin American countries, making it an ideal hub for international trade.

As the second-largest economy in Latin America, Mexico’s growth potential and robust global investment make it an attractive destination for businesses.

Furthermore, the Mexican government’s economic development strategy focuses on:

Reinforcing domestic consumption
Augmenting private investment in infrastructure and strategic sectors
Increasing exports due to the reconfiguration of global value chains in the global economy.

Strategic Location

Mexico’s prime location in North America, particularly Mexico City, grants businesses convenient access to major markets, such as the US, Canada, and Latin America – one reason doing business in Mexico is so popular. Its proximity to these markets and vast consumer base make Mexico a desirable hub for international trade.

However, this strategic location may also present challenges, including heightened competition from neighboring nations and the requirement to adhere to varying regulations and standards for legal entities.

Growing Economy

Mexico’s economy is a powerhouse in Latin America, exhibiting strong growth potential and attracting robust global investment – another key reason companies are increasingly considering doing business in Mexico. The tertiary sector, which includes various Mexican companies operating in the service industry, is the most significant contributor to Mexico’s GDP.

Financial and trade services are the second-largest recipients of Foreign Direct Investment in Mexico, drawing foreign investors and Mexican nationals. Mexico’s burgeoning economy provides a fertile landscape for businesses to flourish and expand.

Skilled Workforce

Mexico boasts a diverse and qualified workforce, ranging from production labor to highly skilled professionals, all working within the country’s minimum wage regulations. The Mexican government has made significant investments in education and training programs to ensure the workforce is adequately prepared for the demands of the contemporary economy while also considering the applicable tax regulations for businesses operating in Mexico.

This skilled labor force, coupled with Mexico’s position as one of the top 10 countries globally in terms of skilled labor, makes it an appealing location for businesses seeking to establish a presence in the country.

Free Trade Agreements

Mexico has comprehensive free trade agreements with numerous countries, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which replaces NAFTA as the primary trilateral free trade agreement in North America. These agreements provide businesses with preferential access to various markets, making Mexico an ideal choice for companies looking to export their goods and services.

Moreover, Mexico offers expedited entry for frequent travelers entering the country through programs such as Programa Viajero Confiable and SENTRI, which provide advantages at airports and land border ports of entry in Canada and Mexico.

With its numerous free trade agreements and streamlined customs processes, Mexico presents a lucrative landscape for businesses seeking to engage in international trade.

Key Industries and Investment Opportunities

Doing business in Mexico means understanding where the real opportunities are. Manufacturing, technology, and energy are the key industries in Mexico, offering ample investment opportunities for foreign businesses looking to capitalize on the country’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and vast resources. Foreign businesses can leverage Mexico’s unique advantages to establish a successful Mexican corporation and tap into the growing economy, which is expected to experience a rebound of around 5% in 2021.

This part highlights the primary industries and investment opportunities in Mexico that foreign investors can exploit.

Manufacturing

Mexico’s manufacturing sector is a dominant industry, focusing on automotive, aerospace, and electronics. With approximately 75.5% of the population utilizing cellular telephones and smart phones, Mexico’s demand for electronics is evident. The primary mobile carriers in Mexico include Telcel, Movistar, and AT&T, highlighting the country’s thriving telecommunications industry.

Investment in Mexico’s manufacturing sector allows foreign businesses to leverage the country’s expanding consumer base and proficiency in creating superior products.

Technology

The technology industry in Mexico is rapidly growing, with government support and investment in IT education and infrastructure. Initiatives such as Internet para Todos (Internet for Everyone) provide free Wi-Fi in certain public spaces, demonstrating the government’s commitment to expanding internet access to its citizens, with approximately 72% of the population having internet access.

Despite the growing dependence on technology, Mexico still has a presence of internet cafes, catering to those without personal devices or internet access at home. Investing in Mexico’s technology sector offers promising opportunities for growth and innovation.

Energy

Mexico’s energy sector is undergoing a transformation, with the government investing significantly in renewable energy sources and oil and gas exploration. The primary sources of energy in Mexico include:

Oil
Natural gas
Hydroelectricity
Renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and geothermal.

With the government actively promoting investment in renewable energy sources and oil and gas exploration through incentives and subsidies, Mexico presents numerous investment opportunities in the energy sector. Tapping into Mexico’s energy market can prove to be a lucrative venture for foreign businesses.

Navigating Mexican Business Culture and Etiquette

Understanding Mexican business culture and etiquette is crucial for successful business relationships, including building personal connections, effective communication, and utilizing business lunches. Any company considering doing business in Mexico must understand these key parts of the business culture.

This part provides an insight into the intricacies of Mexican business culture and etiquette, offering tips for navigating these complexities and building robust relationships with Mexican colleagues, while taking into account the local business customs.

Building Relationships

Building strong personal relationships is essential in Mexican business culture, with an emphasis on trust and loyalty. To establish lasting and trusting relationships, it is essential to make the effort to become familiar with the people you are working with and demonstrate appreciation for their culture and practices.

Additionally, it is important to be transparent and truthful in your interactions, showing reliability and loyalty. Prioritizing relationship-building enables foreign businesses to cultivate robust connections with their Mexican counterparts, paving the way for successful business endeavors

Communication Styles

Communication styles in Mexico tend to be indirect and polite, emphasizing maintaining harmony and avoiding confrontation. Mexicans may use metaphors, analogies, humor, or body language in conversation to express thoughts or lighten the mood.

The indirect communication style in Mexico can result in potential misunderstandings and confusion. Therefore, it is imperative to be mindful of cultural nuances and to exercise patience when engaging with Mexican business partners, ensuring effective communication and a strong foundation for successful business relationships.

Business Lunches

Business lunches in Mexico are essential for building relationships and discussing matters in a more relaxed atmosphere. These lunches typically occur mid-afternoon, around 2:30 pm, and may last several hours, providing ample time for conversation and negotiation.

Business meals are often held in fine dining restaurants, and Mexicans may provide alternative food options for international business contacts. Business lunches can strengthen relationships and facilitate successful negotiations in the Mexican business environment.

Legal Considerations for Foreign Investors

Foreign investors should be aware of legal considerations in Mexico, such as company registration, tax regulations, and employment laws.

This part offers an overview of these legal considerations, assisting foreign businesses in maneuvering through the complexities of Mexican law and facilitating a smooth market entry.

Company Registration

Registering a company in Mexico involves obtaining permits, registering with the Public Registry of Commerce, and applying for a federal tax registration number. Companies with Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) must submit an application for registration with the Foreign Investment Registry within 40 business days of either the incorporation of the company or foreign investors’ participation in corporate capital.

It is essential to ensure that board members are qualified and adhere to the necessary requirements, such as providing a personal guarantee for the fulfillment of their corporate duties and declaring any conflict of interest before participating or voting in conflicted matters.

Understanding the company registration process and requirements enables foreign businesses to establish a foothold in Mexico successfully.

Tax Regulations

Tax regulations in Mexico include income tax, value-added tax (VAT), and local taxes, with various rates and exemptions depending on the business type and location. Mexico’s Value Added Tax (VAT) rate is 16%, while income tax is levied at 30% on a company’s net income.

In addition to these taxes, there are withholding tax rates for interest paid in Mexico and IP royalties, which can vary depending on certain factors and may be reduced or eliminated through double tax treaties.

Staying informed about Mexico’s tax regulations enables foreign businesses to ensure compliance and avoid potential legal complications.

Employment Laws

Employment laws in Mexico govern contracts, termination, and redundancy, with foreign employees requiring permits to work there. The Federal Labor Law dictates the termination of individual employment contracts and labor relationships in Mexico, and it is important to note that there is no employment at will in the country, so a justified cause for dismissal is necessary to terminate an individual’s employment without liability for the employer.

Ensuring a thorough understanding of Mexican employment laws and compliance with these regulations is crucial for foreign businesses operating in the country.

Overcoming Challenges in the Mexican Market

Establishing a business in Mexico can involve complex processes, and certain risks may be detrimental to the success of the venture. This part discusses the challenges businesses encounter in the Mexican market, including security concerns, bureaucracy, and language barriers, and outlines strategies to overcome these issues for successful business operations.

Security Concerns

Addressing security concerns in Mexico involves staying informed about travel advisories and implementing safety measures for employees and assets. Crime, violence, and drug trafficking pose significant security risks in the country.

The US Department of State recommends US citizens exercise increased caution in Mexico due to the risk of crime and advises being mindful of their environment and taking extra safety measures when traveling in the country.

Businesses can ensure the safety of employees and assets by investing in security systems and personnel, ensuring that employees are aware of security risks, and adopting appropriate safety measures.

Bureaucracy and Corruption

Navigating bureaucracy and corruption in Mexico requires patience, persistence, and a thorough understanding of local regulations and procedures. A lack of transparency, long and complicated procedures, and a lack of accountability contribute to bureaucratic and corruption issues in the country.

Staying informed about local laws and regulations helps foreign businesses maneuver through the intricacies of Mexican bureaucracy and diminish the impact of corruption on their activities.

Language Barrier

Overcoming the language barrier in Mexico may involve:

Hiring interpreters or bilingual staff to facilitate communication and ensure understanding of local laws and customs
Providing language training for employees to improve their Spanish skills
Using translation services or software to translate important documents and communications
Utilizing visual aids and gestures to enhance understanding in face-to-face interactions
With Spanish being the official language and English not widely spoken, foreign businesses may face communication difficulties in the country.

Employing interpreters or bilingual personnel can help to bridge the language gap and foster effective communication with Mexican business partners and authorities.

Mexico Market Entry Strategies

Mexico Employer of Record (EOR)

As you explore the Mexican market, utilizing the services of a Mexico Employer of Record (EOR) can be an astute strategy. A Mexico EOR serves as the legal employer for your personnel in Mexico, alleviating the challenges and administrative tasks related to hiring and payroll compliance. Through an EOR, you can hire in Mexico within 24 hours, bypassing the need to establish a local legal entity.

Mexico Professional Employer Organization (PEO)

Venturing into the Mexican market? Considering the services of a Mexico Professional Employer Organization (PEO) could be a wise approach. A Mexico PEO acts as the official employer for your staff in Mexico, easing the complexities and administrative duties associated with recruitment and payroll adherence. With a PEO, you can onboard talent in Mexico in a day without the necessity of setting up a local legal structure.

Case Studies: Success Stories of Foreign Businesses in Mexico

Case studies of successful foreign businesses in Mexico demonstrate the potential for growth and profitability in the Mexican market. These success stories illustrate how foreign companies have capitalized on Mexico’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and burgeoning economy to establish thriving businesses in the country.

By learning from the successes of these companies, foreign businesses can navigate the complexities of the Mexican market and seize lucrative opportunities for growth and expansion.

Summary

In conclusion, doing business in Mexico offers numerous advantages, including a strategic location, a growing economy, a skilled workforce, and extensive free trade agreements. To achieve success in the Mexican market, foreign businesses must navigate the complexities of Mexican business culture, legal considerations, and potential challenges. By understanding the nuances of Mexico’s business environment and employing strategies to overcome obstacles, foreign businesses can unlock the potential for growth and profitability in this vibrant and dynamic market.

FAQ

Is it a good idea to do business in Mexico?

Doing business in Mexico is an attractive opportunity given the significant investment from the US and other countries, with financial and trade services particularly benefiting.

What are the concerns with doing business in Mexico?

Doing business in Mexico presents a few major challenges, such as security issues in certain regions that can disrupt the competitive advantages. Additionally, corruption and inadequate infrastructure also make doing business difficult

How to start a business in mexico?

Starting a business in Mexico requires researching business opportunities, selecting the right entity type, deciding on an industry, submitting a request to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, drafting and signing the Deed of Incorporation, registering the company address and finally registering for taxes.

What are the key industries in Mexico?

Mexico offers a range of investment opportunities in key industries such as manufacturing, technology, and energy.

What legal considerations should foreign investors be aware of when investing in Mexico?

Foreign investors should be aware of company registration, tax regulations, and employment laws when investing in Mexico to ensure they are compliant with local laws.

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