he Limits of Quality Investment in Mexico under the usmca

Abstract

This article analyzes the dynamics of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Mexico within the framework of the usmca and the nearshoring phenomenon. Through a dual methodological strategy —a statistical analysis based on an ordinal index of location factors at the state level and a subnational case study in Coahuila— the hypothesis that recent investment exhibits inertial and selective behavior is tested. The central findings demonstrate a strong territorial concentration of fdi toward regions with mature industrial ecosystems and high productivity, thereby exacerbating pre-existing disparities. The article also concludes that the USMCA regulatory framework limits the mandatory imposition of technology transfer requirements, which makes it difficult to meet the quality investment criteria set forth in recent national planning instruments, although it leaves viable space for the implementation of indirect promotion tools.