Introduction
Zacatecas, strategically located near Mexico’s largest automotive OEM cluster in the Bajio region, is attracting multinational manufacturers and emerging as an important center for the automotive, aerospace, electronics, and industrial sectors. The city’s infrastructure, skilled workforce, and government support make it an ideal destination for manufacturing and electronics companies.
A Rich History and Thriving Present
Known for its historical silver mines, Zacatecas now offers a young and experienced workforce in manufacturing. The city’s infrastructure has vastly improved in recent years, with upgraded highways connecting it to the United States and Mexico City. The state government supports this growth by subsidizing new industrial parks and transportation routes, fostering economic development and job creation.
Educational Support for a Growing Industry
Local professional and technical colleges have expanded their curriculum and degree offerings to prepare the next generation of skilled workers for the growing electronics and manufacturing industries. The government also provides subsidies for students pursuing engineering and other in-demand fields.
Lithium Mining for Electric Batteries
Advance Lithium Mining is in talks with LitioMx to supply lithium for electric batteries produced by BMW and Tesla in Mexico. The company has thirteen exploration projects in Zacatecas and San Luis Potosi, and is developing a demonstration plant in Zacatecas to showcase its unique lithium and potassium extraction methods.
Lear Corporation Expansion
US Tier 1 supplier Lear Corporation is investing $8.2 million to expand its car seat cover production capacity in Zacatecas, creating 600 new jobs. This expansion builds upon the company’s existing presence in the region, which has generated 2,700 jobs since 2016.
Automotive Cluster Investment
Zacatecas is investing over $100,000 in the first two years of a new automotive cluster, which will support the 25,000 jobs generated by the automotive industry in the state. The sector has seen $450 million invested in recent years, highlighting its growing importance to the local economy.
Conclusion
Zacatecas is fast becoming a vital hub for electronics and manufacturing in Mexico, attracting multinational corporations and providing valuable job opportunities for its skilled workforce. With ongoing investments in infrastructure, education, and industry-specific initiatives, Zacatecas is well-positioned to continue its growth as a key player in Mexico’s automotive and electronics sectors.