NEARSHORE GUIDE
Manufacturing in Mexico: The Complete Guide
Learn about what Mexico is most famous for producing, its most industrious cities, and the advantages of manufacturing in Mexico
Manufacturing in Mexico: By the numbers
OPERATING COST SAVINGS
23%
Manufacturing operations in Mexico deliver significant cost advantages compared to other regions.
MANUFACTURING COMPANIES
600,000+
Mexico’s vast manufacturing ecosystem spans diverse industries from automotive to aerospace.
SHIPPING TO THE USA
3 DAYS
Strategic location enables rapid delivery to U.S. markets, minimizing supply chain delays.
tRADE AGREEMENTS
14
Extensive free trade network provides preferential access to major global markets.
What is Mexico famous for producing?
Mexico is renowned for its diverse and significant contributions across various sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, and cultural products.
Apparels and Textiles: sportswear, workwear, uniforms, denim, activewear, outerwear, knitwear, casual apparel
Leather Goods: shoes, handbags, wallets, belts, briefcases, luggage, jackets, watch straps
Glassware/Containers: bottles, vases, drinkware, tableware, decorative bowls, storage jars, hand-blown art glass
Major Industrial Cities in Mexico
Mexico’s major industrial cities are central to its economy, hosting diverse industries that drive national and international commerce. These cities attract global businesses with skilled labor, advanced logistics, and proximity to the U.S.
Mexico City
The nation’s economic heart, where Fortune 500 companies converge with a diverse manufacturing base spanning automotive, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods. Its massive skilled workforce and advanced infrastructure drive multi-sector industrial growth.
Monterrey
Mexico’s industrial titan, anchored by steel and automotive manufacturing giants, plus advanced materials production. Home to Latin America’s most sophisticated manufacturing operations and the country’s leading industrial conglomerates.
Ciudad Juárez & Tijuana
Twin pillars of Mexico’s border industrialization, dominating North American production of medical devices, electronics, and automotive components through advanced manufacturing operations and strategic U.S. proximity.
Querétaro
A world-class aerospace cluster where manufacturing giants like Bombardier and Safran operate alongside 80+ specialized suppliers, backed by advanced aeronautical universities and research centers. The region’s strategic location and highly skilled workforce fuel its reputation as Mexico’s aviation innovation hub.
Guadalajara
Latin America’s tech powerhouse, home to global electronics manufacturers like Intel and IBM, plus a dynamic ecosystem of startups and R&D centers. The city combines advanced electronics manufacturing with innovative software development, supported by top engineering talent.
Puebla
A manufacturing powerhouse anchored by Volkswagen’s largest plant outside Germany, complemented by a diverse industrial base spanning automotive suppliers, textiles, and food production. The region’s century-old manufacturing heritage and skilled workforce drive its continued growth.
San Luis Potosí
A strategic automotive hub hosting major OEMs like BMW and General Motors, complemented by a robust supplier network and advanced manufacturing facilities. The city’s central location and skilled workforce make it a key player in Mexico’s automotive corridor.
Manufacturing Certifications in Mexico
Manufacturing certificates in Mexico verify factory compliance with international standards and provide benefits like IMMEX tax exemptions. These credentials enhance Mexico’s competitiveness as a manufacturing hub while building trust with global partners.
ISO 9001
An international standard that specifies requirements for a quality management system, focusing on consistent product quality and process improvement.
ISO 45001
An international standard for occupational health and safety management systems, designed to reduce workplace risks and improve employee safety.
ISO 14001
An international standard for environmental management systems that helps organizations minimize their environmental impact and comply with applicable regulations.
NOMS
Official Mexican Standards that establish mandatory technical regulations for various products and services to ensure safety, quality, and performance requirements.
IATF 16949
An automotive sector-specific quality management standard that builds on ISO 9001 with additional requirements for automotive production and supply chain.
IMMEX
A customs program allowing temporary imports of materials and equipment for manufacturing, assembly, or repair operations, with subsequent export of finished products.
Manufacturing in Mexico vs. China
While China offers lower labor costs and established supply chains, Mexico’s proximity to the US market and duty-free access under USMCA make it increasingly attractive for manufacturers serving North America.
| 🇲🇽 Mexico | 🇨🇳 China | |
| Cost | Lower Cost Lower labor and energy costs, with stable wages. Overall cheaper for U.S.-focused operations. | Higher Cost Higher and rising labor and energy expenses make it less cost-effective. |
| Time | Shorter Time Fast 1-2 day shipping to the U.S., reducing transportation costs and enabling quicker response times. | Longer Time Long shipping times (up to 36 days) to the U.S., adding delays and higher logistics expenses. |
| Quality | Higher Quality Easier quality control and a skilled, young workforce often fluent in English. | Lower Quality Quality management is harder due to distance, and workforce is aging. |
| Intellectual Property | USMCA provides tariff advantages; IMMEX allows duty-free imports. | Impacted by tariffs and trade tensions; IP protection issues remain |
Finding Factories in Mexico
Finding the right manufacturing partner in Mexico requires a systematic evaluation of location advantages, facility capabilities, and operational strength, including key factors like certifications, workforce quality, and cost structures.
Research & Shortlist
Start by using platforms like Nearshored.ai to search for factories that fit your product needs. Understand the specific materials, technical requirements, and capabilities needed for your product.
Visit & Evaluate
Schedule visits or calls to assess each factory’s production capabilities and quality controls. Bring product samples to discuss requirements in detail and ensure alignment.
Verify Compliance
Check for essential certifications like ISO 9001 or environmental standards to ensure factories meet global quality benchmarks.
Finalize Contracts
Negotiate terms carefully, including pricing, delivery, and quality standards. Utilize legal support to make sure contracts are compliant with Mexican regulations.
Maintain Oversight
Establish regular communication and monitor performance to ensure consistent quality.
What is Nearshoring?
Nearshoring helps companies cut costs and boost efficiency by relocating operations to neighboring countries like Mexico. The strategy offers faster shipping, aligned time zones for better communication, and access to nearby skilled labor. Nearshore’s marketplace simplifies finding partners and transitioning operations to maintain competitiveness.
Benefits of Nearshoring
Proximity and Time Zone
Easier, real-time collaboration and faster decision-making thanks to similar time zones.
Lower Costs
Reduced labor and logistics expenses compared to onshore operations, with quicker shipping than offshoring.
Faster Delivery
Shorter shipping times minimize delays and allow for more agile supply chains.
Skilled Talent
Access to a highly trained workforce, especially in manufacturing and tech.
Ready to Connect with Factories in Mexico?
Find your ideal Mexican manufacturing partner today.