Mexico's Economic Landscape: Size, Sectors, Income Distribution, Industries and Economic Base

The Size of the Economy

Mexico is the 12th largest economy in the world by GDP (PPP).

Table: GPD (PPP) (Millions of current international dollars) by Country

Source: List of countries by GDP (PPP) - Wikipedia

Table: GPD per capita (PPP) (Current international dollar) by Country

Mexico is in a group of "middle-income" countries, including Brazil, Argentina, and most of Eastern Europe.

Source: List of countries by GDP (PPP) per capita - Wikipedia

Chart: GPD per capita (PPP) (Current international dollar) Trend

Structure of the Economy

Economic activities are broken down into primary, secondary, and tertiary activities. Definitions may vary, but the following is a common breakdown:

• Primary activities: Agriculture, forestry, fishing, mining
• Secondary activities: Manufacturing, construction, electricity generation
• Tertiary activities: Services, including transportation, finance, and retail

Chart: GPD by Sector Composition

Source: List of countries by GDP sector composition - Wikipedia

Chart: Long-term Employment Distribution by Sector

Source: Rhoda, Richard, and Tony Burton. Geo-Mexico: The Geography and Dynamics of Modern Mexico. Ladysmith, B.C: Sombrero Books, 2010.

Income Distribution

Key Metrics:

• R/P 10%: the ratio of the average income of the richest 10% to the poorest 10%
• R/P 20%: the ratio of the average income of the richest 20% to the poorest 20%
• Gini Index: a measure of income inequality ranging from 0 (perfect equality) to 100 (perfect inequality)

Table: Income Distribution

Source: List of countries by income equality - Wikipedia

Mexico is the country with the second highest degree of economic disparity between the extremely poor and extremely rich, after Chile, although this gap has been diminishing over the last decade

Source: 8.5C: Mexico’s Economy - Social Sci LibreTexts

Table: Wealthy Individuals and Their Primary Industries

Source: Multiple

The Spatial Distribution of Economic Production

Chart: GPD per Person by State As Countries

Source: Mexican states GDP per capita (PPP) matching... - Maps on the Web (zoom-maps.com)

Chart: Household Income by State

Source: The pattern of household incomes in Mexico, 2015 – Geo-Mexico, the geography of Mexico

For areas within a country, per-person production is not closely aligned with per-person income because the benefits of production may go to individuals or entities in other areas of the country.

Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, Mining

This summary is generated by Perpexity.

Mexico is a country with a diverse economy, where agriculture, forestry, fishing, and mining play significant roles, though their contributions to the overall GDP have shifted over time. Let's explore each of these sectors:

Agriculture

Agriculture in Mexico has been an important part of the country's economy and culture for centuries. However, its contribution to the GDP has decreased over time:

• In 2022, agriculture, forestry, and fishing combined accounted for about 3.8% of Mexico's GDP[1].
• Despite this relatively small GDP contribution, the sector employs a significant portion of the workforce, with about 12.5% of the labor force engaged in these activities[1].

Key aspects of Mexican agriculture include:

• Major crops: corn, sugarcane, sorghum, wheat, tomatoes, bananas, chili peppers, oranges, lemons, and limes[1].
• Export crops: coffee, sugarcane, fruits (such as bananas, pineapples, and mangos), and cotton[1].
• The country has shifted from being a net exporter to a net importer of agricultural products, primarily importing grains from the United States[1].

Forestry

Forestry in Mexico faces challenges related to deforestation and conservation:

• It's estimated that nearly two-thirds of the country was covered by forests in the mid-1500s, but this resource has been significantly reduced due to exploitation[4].
• The largest forests are now found in the tropical east and south of the country[4].
• Conservation efforts are practiced in some pine forests in the northern Sierra Madre Occidental, but logging has damaged many areas[4].

Fishing

Mexico has abundant marine resources, although fish and seafood are not major components of the national diet:

• Key fishing areas include the Gulf of California, which is the country's main fishing ground, producing most of the total commercial catch[4].
• Major species caught include sardines, anchovies, and tuna[4].
• Shrimp fishing is significant in the Gulf Coast areas[4].

Mining Industry

Mexico has a long history of mining and remains a significant producer of various minerals:

• Mexico is the world's leading producer of silver[4].
• Other important minerals include gold and copper[7].
• In 2022, Mexico's mining market value was USD 3.3 billion[8].
• The mining sector faces challenges due to recent regulatory changes, including reduced concession lengths and stricter water extraction rules[7].
• Investment in the mining industry is expected to remain stable at around $5 billion in 2024, similar to previous years[7].

Recent developments and challenges in these sectors include:

• Environmental concerns: The government has implemented stricter regulations on mining activities, particularly regarding water usage and environmental impact[7].
• Trade relationships: Mexico's agricultural trade is heavily integrated with the United States, with about 60% of Mexico's agricultural exports going to the U.S.[3].
• Policy shifts: The incoming administration of President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum may bring changes to mining policies, potentially including a ban on open-pit mining[9].

These sectors continue to be important for Mexico's economy, providing employment and export revenues. However, they also face challenges related to environmental sustainability, international competition, and changing government policies.

Citations:
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agriculture_in_Mexico
[2] https://unctad.org/system/files/official-document/ditctncd2012d2_en.pdf
[3] https://www.trade.gov/country-commercial-guides/mexico-agriculture
[4] https://www.britannica.com/place/Mexico/Forestry
[5] https://forestlegality.org/risk-tool/country/mexico
[6] https://www.fao.org/fishery/en/facp/mex?lang=en
[7] https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/mexico-mining-investment-seen-stable-5-billion-2024-says-industry-group-2024-07-10/
[8] https://www.trade.gov/country-commercial-guides/mexico-mining-and-minerals
[9] https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/mexicos-new-government-signals-continuity-and-risks-for-the-mining-sector
[10] https://www.investopedia.com/articles/investing/090315/emerging-markets-analyzing-mexicos-gdp.asp

Petroleum and Natural Gas

This summary is generated by Perpexity.

Petroleum Industry

1. Production and Reserves:
   • Mexico is the second-largest oil producer in Latin America, with total oil and gas production of 1.9 million barrels of oil equivalent per day (mmboed) in 2023[5].
   • Crude oil production peaked at 3.9 million barrels per day (b/d) in 2004 and declined until 2019, when it stabilized around 1.9 million b/d[6].
   • Mexico's proven oil reserves have fallen from over 10 billion barrels in 2014 to slightly below 6.0 billion barrels in 2023[6].
2. Key Production Areas:
   • The majority of oil production comes from shallow water fields in the Gulf of Mexico[5].
   • The Sureste Basin (formerly Campeche Basin) contains over 80% of Mexico's proven reserves[6].
3. Major Players:
   • Petroleos Mexicanos (Pemex), the national oil company, remains the dominant player[5].
   • Private companies have increased their contribution, accounting for over 5% of total production in 2022, up from 0.5% in 2016[6].
4. Recent Developments:
   • Mexico opened its oil industry to private investment in 2013 after decades of state monopoly[6].
   • Production has stabilized since 2019 and is expected to remain around 1.9 million b/d through 2024[6].

Natural Gas Industry

1. Production and Consumption:
   • Mexico has an estimated 17 trillion cubic feet (Tcf) of proven natural gas reserves[1].
   • The country has become increasingly reliant on natural gas for power generation[7].
2. Imports:
   • Mexico imports nearly 70% of its natural gas demand from the United States[7].
   • U.S. natural gas exports to Mexico are expected to grow over the coming decade[7].
3. Infrastructure:
   • Several new pipelines have recently become operational or are nearing completion, including Tula-Villa de Reyes, Tuxpan-Tula, and Cuxtal Phase II[7].
   • Pipeline infrastructure for transporting U.S. gas to Mexico has doubled over the past five years[7].
4. Future Developments:
   • The Mexican government plans to add about 6,000 MW of combined cycle power plants using natural gas[7].
   • Several LNG export projects are under development to export U.S. gas to Europe and Asia via Mexico[7].
5. Challenges:
   • Pemex, the national oil company, has struggled to produce enough natural gas to meet domestic demand[7].

In conclusion, while Mexico's petroleum industry has stabilized after years of decline, the country is increasingly relying on natural gas, particularly imports from the U.S., to meet its growing energy needs and support electricity generation.

Citations:
[1] https://www.trade.gov/country-commercial-guides/mexico-oil-and-gas
[2] https://theenergyyear.com/market/mexicos-energy-industry/
[3] https://www.iea.org/countries/mexico/oil
[4] https://www.iea.org/countries/mexico/natural-gas
[5] https://www.globaldata.com/store/report/mexico-oil-and-gas-exploration-and-production-analysis/
[6] https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=56240
[7] https://www.powermag.com/mexico-increases-reliance-on-natural-gas-to-support-electricity-demand/

Manufacturing, Construction, and Services

This summary is generated by Perpexity.

Based on the search results, here's a summary of the manufacturing, construction, and service industries in Mexico:

Manufacturing Industry:

1. Mexico is a major player in global manufacturing, ranking as the 14th largest country by GDP in 2022 ($1.414 trillion)[5].
2. Key manufacturing sectors include:
   • Automotive: Mexico is the 4th largest exporter of auto parts globally[7].
   • Aerospace: There are over 330 aerospace manufacturers in Mexico[2].
   • Electronics: Mexico has a growing electronics industry with 1,460+ manufacturers[2].
   • Medical devices: There are 2,458 medical device manufacturers in Mexico as of 2022[2].
   • Textiles: Annual textile exports reach $7 billion[7].
3. The manufacturing sector contributes about 19% to Mexico's GDP[5].
4. Mexico's strategic location, free trade agreements (e.g., USMCA), and competitive labor costs have attracted multinational corporations[8].

Construction Industry:

1. The construction market size in Mexico was $252.8 billion in 2023[3].
2. The industry is expected to grow at an average annual growth rate of less than 2% during 2025-2028[3].
3. Key sectors in construction include commercial, industrial, infrastructure, energy and utilities, institutional, and residential[3].
4. Major infrastructure and energy projects are driving growth in the construction sector[4].
5. The construction industry grew by 12.8% in real terms in 2023, supported by investments in infrastructure and energy projects[4].

Service Industry:

1. The service sector is the dominant force in the Mexican economy, contributing 58.8% to the GDP[5].
2. It employs 62% of the nation's labor force[5].
3. Key components of the service sector include:
   • Financial services: Largely foreign-owned, with major international banks operating in Mexico[5].
   • Tourism: Mexico has 35 UNESCO World Heritage sites, making it a significant tourist destination[5].
4. The food service market in Mexico reached a value of around $41.28 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow[6].

Overall, Mexico's economy has diversified, with a strong manufacturing base, a growing construction sector, and a dominant service industry. The country's strategic location, trade agreements, and competitive labor costs continue to attract foreign investment across these sectors.

Citations:
[1] https://doingbusiness-mexico.com/the-manufacturing-sector-in-mexico/
[2] https://www.co-production.net/manufacturing-in-mexico/manufacturing-industries.html
[3] https://www.globaldata.com/store/report/mexico-construction-market-analysis/
[4] https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240130685701/en/Mexico-Construction-Industry-Report-2024-Output-was-Set-to-Grow-by-12.8-in-Real-Terms-in-2023---Commercial-Industrial-Infrastructure-Energy-Institutional-and-Residential-Forecasts-to-2027---ResearchAndMarkets.com
[5] https://www.investopedia.com/articles/investing/090315/emerging-markets-analyzing-mexicos-gdp.asp
[6] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/mexicos-food-service-market-growth-trends-projections-singh-ypwcc
[7] https://insights.tetakawi.com/top-6-mexican-manufacturing-industries
[8] https://novalinkmx.com/2023/07/31/mexico-manufacturing-industry/

Transportation

This summary is generated by Perpexity.

Railroads

Mexico has a well-developed freight rail network, primarily operated by private companies since the privatization of the sector in 1998. Key features include:

• Total network length of approximately 26,914 kilometers (16,724 miles)
• Major operators include Ferromex and Kansas City Southern de México
• Primarily used for freight transport, with limited passenger services
• The Tren Maya project, a 1,500 km railway in the Yucatán Peninsula, aims to boost tourism and regional development

Highways

Mexico has an extensive highway network, including:

• Over 370,000 km of roads, with about 50,000 km of paved federal highways
• Major routes like the Federal Highway 85 connecting Mexico City to Nuevo Laredo
• Toll roads (autopistas) and free roads (carreteras libres)

Airports

The country has a well-developed airport system:

• 76 international airports and numerous domestic airports
• Major hubs include Mexico City International Airport, Cancún International Airport, and Guadalajara International Airport
• Ongoing projects like the Felipe Ángeles International Airport to alleviate congestion in Mexico City

Ports

Mexico's maritime infrastructure is significant:

• 76 seaports and 10 river ports
• Major ports include Manzanillo and Lázaro Cárdenas on the Pacific coast, and Veracruz and Altamira on the Gulf of Mexico
• Handles a diverse range of cargo, including containers, bulk goods, and petroleum products

Challenges in Transportation

1. Infrastructure quality: Despite improvements, some areas still lack adequate transportation infrastructure, particularly in remote regions.
2. Urban congestion: Major cities like Mexico City face severe traffic congestion, impacting air quality and economic productivity.
3. Security concerns: Cargo theft and safety issues on certain routes pose challenges for freight transport.
4. Border crossing delays: Long wait times at U.S.-Mexico border crossings affect cross-border trade efficiency.
5. Driver shortages: Both Mexico and the USA face a shortage of qualified truck drivers, impacting freight movement.
6. Sustainability: The need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector, which accounts for about 26% of Mexico's total emissions.
7. Public transportation quality: Many cities struggle with outdated and inefficient public transit systems, affecting urban mobility.
8. Funding and investment: Securing adequate funding for infrastructure maintenance and new projects remains a challenge.
9. Regulatory complexities: Navigating customs procedures and regulations can be cumbersome, particularly for cross-border trade.
10. Natural disasters: Mexico's geography makes it vulnerable to natural disasters that can disrupt transportation networks.
11. Mexico's transportation infrastructure, particularly in urban areas, is struggling to keep up with rapid growth and demand:

Citations:
[1] https://www.trade.gov/country-commercial-guides/mexico-transportation-infrastructure-equipment-and-services
[2] https://revista.drclas.harvard.edu/the-challenges-of-rural-transportation-in-mexico/
[3] https://www.webuildvalue.com/en/global-economy-sustainability/mexico-city-transportation-system.html
[4] https://trinitylogistics.com/blog/nearshoring-to-mexico-4-snags-to-avoid-with-cross-border-shipping
[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transportation_in_Mexico
[6] https://www.intertraffic.com/news/mexico-faces-challenge-of-safer-mobility
[7] https://tgl-group.net/en/news-detail728_0.htm
[8] https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/navigating-transportation-maze-2024-due-nearshoring-americas-vjmtc
[9] https://www.gocomet.com/blog/top-mexico-ports-2/
[10] https://gggi.org/project/improving-public-transportation-systems-in-mexico/
[11] https://changing-transport.org/smart-inclusive-and-sustainable-public-transport-in-mexico/

Export and Import

This summary is generated by ChatGPT.

Mexico's Exports

Mexico is a significant player in global trade, particularly as an exporter. The country has a diversified export base, with strong ties to the United States due to the USMCA (formerly NAFTA) agreement. Key export sectors include:

1. Manufactured Goods:
   • Automobiles and Auto Parts: Mexico is one of the largest exporters of vehicles and auto parts globally. Major international automakers have significant manufacturing operations in Mexico.
   • Electronics: Mexico exports a large volume of electronic goods, including televisions, computers, and mobile phones.
   • Machinery and Equipment: The country produces and exports a wide range of industrial machinery.
2. Agricultural Products:
   • Fruits and Vegetables: Mexico is a leading exporter of fresh produce like avocados, tomatoes, berries, and peppers.
   • Coffee: Mexican coffee, especially from regions like Chiapas and Oaxaca, is well-regarded globally.
   • Sugar: Sugar and sugar-based products are also significant exports.
3. Oil and Petroleum Products:
   • Mexico has substantial oil reserves and exports crude oil, although this sector has been fluctuating due to various global and domestic factors.
4. Textiles and Apparel:
   • The country exports a range of textiles and clothing items, benefiting from its proximity to the U.S. market.

Mexico's Imports

Mexico's import needs are diverse, driven by its large population and industrial base. The main categories include:

1. Machinery and Equipment:
   • Electrical Machinery: This includes various components and equipment essential for manufacturing and industrial activities.
   • Computers and IT Equipment: Mexico imports a significant volume of computers and related technology for both consumer and industrial use.
2. Chemicals:
   • Pharmaceuticals: Mexico imports a wide range of pharmaceuticals to meet domestic healthcare needs.
   • Fertilizers: The agricultural sector relies on imported fertilizers and other chemicals.
3. Vehicles and Parts:
   • Although a major exporter, Mexico also imports vehicles and automotive parts, particularly high-tech components and luxury vehicles.
4. Agricultural Products:
   • Grains: Mexico imports large quantities of grains, such as corn and wheat, primarily from the United States.
   • Dairy Products: The country imports various dairy products to supplement domestic production.
5. Fuels:
   • Refined Petroleum: Despite being an oil producer, Mexico imports refined petroleum products to meet domestic fuel demands.

Trade Partners

Mexico's trade is heavily oriented towards the United States, with over 75% of its exports going to its northern neighbor. Other significant trading partners include:

• Canada: As part of the USMCA, Canada is also a key trade partner.
• China: Mexico imports a large volume of goods from China, including electronics, machinery, and textiles.
• Germany: A crucial partner in automotive and industrial equipment trade.

Trade Agreements

Mexico is a member of several trade agreements, which facilitate its trade activities:

• USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement): This agreement has replaced NAFTA and continues to be crucial for Mexico's trade with its northern neighbors.
• Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP): Mexico is part of this major trade pact, which enhances its trade relations with Asia-Pacific countries.
• European Union-Mexico Trade Agreement: Mexico has a free trade agreement with the EU, allowing it to trade extensively with European nations.

Mexico’s trade policies and agreements have positioned it as a key global trade hub, with a strong emphasis on manufacturing, agricultural exports, and increasingly, technology-driven industries.

The Geography of Mexico

This summary is generated by ChatGPT.

• Population Distribution in Mexico:
  • Over 128 million people live in Mexico as of 2023.
  • More than half the population resides in a narrow central strip that makes up only 18% of the country's land.
  • This distribution pattern has been consistent for centuries due to geographic and climatic factors.
• Geographic and Climatic Factors:
  • The central strip corresponds to a subtropical highland climate, ideal for agriculture.
  • Surrounding areas consist of arid deserts to the north and dense rainforests to the south, which are less hospitable.
• Mexico City:
  • Sixth-largest city in the world, larger than New York City by nearly three million people.
  • Faces a significant issue of subsidence, with some areas sinking up to half a meter annually.
  • Predicted to sink by 20 to 30 meters by the end of the 21st century due to groundwater depletion.
• Historical Context:
  • Mexico City was built on the site of Tenochtitlan, the Aztec capital, which was situated on an island in Lake Texcoco.
  • The Aztecs chose this location for its strategic advantages, but the Spanish drained the lake post-conquest, leading to modern flooding and subsidence problems.
• Environmental Challenges:
  • Sinking is exacerbated by the city's foundation on a soft clay lake bed.
  • High altitude and surrounding mountains trap pollutants, leading to severe air pollution.
  • Mexico City was labeled the world's most polluted city in 1992, though air quality has since improved.
• Economic Developments:
  • The maquiladora program and NAFTA have driven growth along the U.S.-Mexico border.
  • Northern Mexico is seeing increased population movement due to job opportunities, potentially altering the historical population distribution.
• Manufacturing and Trade:
  • Mexico has become a manufacturing powerhouse, especially in the automotive industry.
  • Proximity to the United States is a significant advantage, making Mexico a key player in global trade.
• Ongoing Challenges:
  • Mexico City continues to face subsidence, water shortages, and air pollution.
  • These challenges are deeply rooted in the city's unique geography and rapid urbanization.
  • Despite these issues, Mexico City remains historically significant and economically vital.

Source: Why 82% of Mexico is Empty (youtube.com), Why Mexico City's Geography SUCKS - YouTube

Book References

Rhoda, Richard, and Tony Burton. Geo-Mexico: The Geography and Dynamics of Modern Mexico. Ladysmith, B.C: Sombrero Books, 2010.