Mexico's Development Strategy
The government is pursuing a transformation strategy focused on economic reindustrialization, energy independence, basic social services, and territorial equity:
Mexico is the most populous Spanish-speaking country in the world, the second-largest economy in Latin America, and a globally significant emerging market. It combines highly industrialized regions with traditional rural areas, high biodiversity with urban overdevelopment, and economic openness with deeply entrenched social inequalities.
As a member of the G20 and the OECD, with close trade ties (particularly with the United States) and a leading role in regional sustainability forums, Mexico has a strong institutional foundation. At the same time, it faces severe land degradation, water stress, economies of violence, and a deep disconnect between formal governance and actual territorial control in some regions.
Amid these conflicting priorities, Mexico is now pursuing a new strategic approach: social cohesion, climate protection, and economic sovereignty should no longer be at odds with one another—but rather work together to pave the way toward a resilient and equitable future.
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– National Development Plan 2019–2024
A framework plan focusing on social participation, anti-corruption efforts, infrastructure investments, and the equitable distribution of government services across the region.
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– Sectoral Program for the Environment and Natural Resources (PROMARNAT)
Strategy for environmental protection, water management, biodiversity conservation, and reforestation—including the implementation of international climate and environmental goals.
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– National Climate Change Strategy (2023–2030)
A binding roadmap for reducing emissions, protecting vulnerable regions, and promoting renewable energy sources, particularly in the south and along the coasts.
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– Sonora Sustainable Energy Plan (2022)
A future-oriented program for the development of large-scale solar and hydrogen projects in the state of Sonora—a key initiative for green industrial policy and export potential.
These strategies aim to address Mexico’s structural challenges through a climate-resilient economy, decentralized social infrastructure, and ecosystem-based planning.
An Overview of the Challenges
Water Stress & Resource Scarcity
More than 70% of the country is considered arid or semi-arid. Megacities like Mexico City face chronic water shortages. Groundwater levels are falling, and in many places, infrastructure systems are outdated or prone to corruption.
Climate Risks & Biodiversity Loss
Mexico is one of the five most biodiverse countries in the world—yet it also faces high rates of deforestation, soil erosion, and wetland loss. Coastal regions are severely affected by extreme weather.
Regional Disparities & the Economics of Violence
While northern Mexico is largely industrialized, the southern states (Chiapas, Oaxaca, Guerrero) are characterized by poverty, poor infrastructure, and a marginalized indigenous population. In several regions, non-state actors influence the reality of development.
Urban Growth & Informal Areas
In metropolitan areas, millions of people live in informal settlements—often without reliable access to water, energy, or waste management services. Cities such as Monterrey, Guadalajara, and Puebla are under significant pressure to implement climate-resilient urban development.
Global Alliances & Multilateral Cooperation
Climate Finance & Energy Partnerships
Mexico is a member of the NDC Partnership and receives funding from the Green Climate Fund and the Clean Technology Fund. It has programs in place with Germany and the United States to promote renewable energy, grid integration, and energy efficiency technologies.
Biodiversity and Forest Conservation Initiatives
As part of the REDD+ program, in collaboration with the FAO, UNDP, and GEF, Mexico is focusing on participatory forest conservation, indigenous cooperation projects, and sustainable land use in the southern highlands and the Yucatán.
Agenda 2030 & SDG Governance
Mexico has one of the most institutionally developed SDG implementation frameworks in the region—including a national monitoring system, an SDG financing strategy, and a multi-stakeholder platform.
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