Weekly Economic Analysis of the Most Important News for Mexico's Business Sector

The first half of April concluded with news that set the agenda in Mexico and worldwide. Nationally, the Senate approved the Plan B electoral reform, meaning only its publication in the Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF) is pending for it to become law and for President Claudia Sheinbaum’s initiatives to take effect. Meanwhile, negotiations between the United States and Iran failed, triggering new threats from President Trump to blockade the Strait of Hormuz, while the Islamic nation indicated it is prepared to “take” Middle Eastern seas. Consequently, volatility in financial markets and oil prices was immediate.

In this report, we analyze the latest economic data and its impact on business strategy.

Key Federal Government News

The Senate of the Republic issued the declaration of constitutionality for the so-called “Plan B” electoral reform on April 14. With the support of 19 state legislatures, the initiative achieved the required majority to amend the Constitution, thus marking a new chapter in the reorganization of the Mexican electoral system.

Furthermore, the Mexican government is promoting the Economic Development Poles for Well-being (PODECOBI) as a strategy to strengthen the economy and improve quality of life. The first pole in Huamantla marks the beginning of a national plan that will integrate public and private investment. This model, part of the Mexico Plan and promoted by Claudia Sheinbaum, includes 15 poles and 100 industrial parks distributed across different regions of the country.

Likewise, Mexico’s investment policy registered a structural change following the publication on April 9, 2026, in the Official Gazette of the Federation, of the new Law for the Promotion of Investment in Strategic Infrastructure for Development with Well-being. This regulation introduces the

which redefines the relationship between the State and the private sector to drive strategic projects without losing public oversight. The scheme aims to mobilize up to 5.6 trillion pesos between 2026 and 2030, especially in energy, transportation, and logistics. Through this model, the public sector contributes capital, infrastructure, and permits, while the private sector adds investment, technology, and operation. Additionally, financial mechanisms such as trusts are contemplated to execute projects with efficiency and transparency.

Financial and Business Markets

The Mexican Stock Exchange began trading on April 15 with declines, with the S&P/BMV IPC index falling 0.48% to 68,608 points, in a global environment marked by caution. The Mexican peso depreciated to 17.30 per dollar, affected by Middle East tensions, although it maintains weekly gains of 0.68% and monthly gains of 3.08%.

In contrast, in the United States, markets advanced with gains in the Dow Jones, Nasdaq, and S&P 500, driven by solid bank earnings and expectations of stability. Oil prices also rose, with WTI at 91.63 dollars and Brent at 95.02. In economic data, the Eurozone’s industrial production grew by 0.4%, while New York’s manufacturing index rebounded to 11 points, signaling recovery. In Brazil, retail sales grew by only 0.2%. Bitcoin advanced marginally in a still cautious market.

Separately, foreign direct investment in Nuevo León maintains an upward trend following the international tour led by Governor Samuel García, who finalized new agreements in Asia that strengthen the automotive industry and the state’s positioning in global value chains. With these advancements, the entity surpasses 120 billion dollars in accumulated FDI, consolidating its position as one of Mexico’s main industrial hubs.

During his visit to South Korea, investments exceeding 340 million dollars were formalized across three key projects. Nippon Industrial Fastener Corporation will invest 147 million and create over 3,000 jobs; Hyundai WIA will allocate 35 million for 240 new positions; while DH Autoware will contribute 167 million and create 440 jobs. Collectively, these investments will generate 3,680 direct jobs, strengthening the labor market in specialized sectors.

Legal Reforms Impacting the Business Sector

With unanimous approval in the Senate, the reform to the Federal Labor Law marks a structural change in Mexico’s labor market by imposing new obligations on companies and strengthening regulatory oversight. Among the main changes is the mandatory implementation of electronic attendance tracking, known as a “time clock,” starting in 2027, which must document entries, exits, overtime, and breaks, with legal validity and supervision by the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare.

The reform also increases penalties for non-compliance, with fines that can exceed 500,000 pesos, in addition to potential fiscal and administrative consequences. This requires companies to prepare starting in 2026 through technological investment, training, and adjustments to their internal processes.

Another key pillar is the gradual reduction of the workweek to 40 hours, to be implemented between 2027 and 2030 without affecting salaries or benefits. Likewise, stricter limits are established for overtime, with weekly caps and differentiated payments.

Risk and Opportunity Analysis for the Business Sector

President Claudia Sheinbaum has defined a new direction for Mexico’s energy policy, rejecting conventional fracking while exploring innovative technologies for natural gas extraction. This stance aims to reduce energy dependence on the United States, from which the country imports nearly 75% of its consumed gas.

Conventional fracking is discarded due to its environmental impacts, primarily intensive freshwater use (up to 29,000 cubic meters per well) and contamination with hazardous chemicals. In response, the government is betting on new technologies that use recycled or saline water and biodegradable compounds, with the objective of reducing environmental impact without abandoning the utilization of energy resources.

To evaluate these alternatives, a scientific committee will be formed with experts from institutions such as UNAM and the Mexican Petroleum Institute, who will analyze international experiences in countries like the United States and Canada.

However, there are conflicting views. Environmental organizations warn of persistent risks, such as methane emissions with high global warming potential, and high operating costs. In contrast, proponents highlight technological advancements, such as the reuse of up to 97% of water and cost reduction.

In parallel, Mexico is promoting renewable energies such as solar and wind, although natural gas will remain key. With significant reserves and ambitious production targets, the challenge will be to balance energy sovereignty, investment, and environmental sustainability.