Country Profile
From The Report: Mexico 2017
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At a time when a number of major Latin American economies, including Brazil and Venezuela, are heading toward recession, Mexico’s economy stands out in the region for its resilience. Projections for 2017 are couched in more uncertainty than is usual, however, in light of the lack of clarity over and the potential impact of policy changes in the US during the first year in office for US President Donald Trump. In forecasts released after the November 2016 US election, the World Bank projected Mexican GDP growth easing to 1.8% in 2017, while the IMF has forecast 1.7%.

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Overview

A unique example: A land with diverse history, economy and natural resources
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Geographically and culturally diverse, Mexico is the second-largest economy and second most populous nation in Latin America. The country boasts more than 11,100 km of coastline and various terrains ranging from desert to mountains to rainforests, as well as a rich cultural heritage that includes numerous well-preserved ancient indigenous cities. Mexico is also a significant producer of hydrocarbons and minerals, and thanks to the North American Free Trade Agreement and 3000-km border with the US,…

Overview

A time of transition: Despite recent uncertainty, Mexico remains a crucial regional player
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Mexico is the third-largest and second most populous country in Latin America. It is connected by language and culture to the countries lying to the south, while geography makes it part of North America and provides for close economic ties with the US and Canada. Memberships to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), the OECD and the Pacific Alliance have been a major source of economic and political opportunities for the country, as well as some recent tensions with the US. A Rich History The…

Analysis

In the works: Government reforms seek to mitigate unfair labour practices
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The current government has made a number of changes to Mexico’s federal labour law. One of its first initiatives in December 2012 was to regulate outsourcing through third-party hiring or subcontracting by sharply increasing fines chargeable to employers for violating outsourcing regulations, making individual employment contracts more flexible, and capping employer liability to laid-off workers at no more than 12 months with an additional three months of compensation plus a 2% levy. New Reforms Subsequent…

Interview

Rising to the occasion: President Enrique Peña Nieto, on domestic innovation and global economic trends
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Interview:President Enrique Peña Nieto In what ways is your administration improving the position of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Mexico? PRESIDENT ENRIQUE PEÑA NIETO: We decided that any policy should be aimed not only at companies, but also at entrepreneurs. Therefore, we have two broad objectives: to promote innovative ventures through the creation of capital funds and the development of innovation hubs for entrepreneurs to develop their models, prototypes and first product…

Interview

Unity is strength: Mauricio Macri, President of Argentina, on fostering economic and social development in Latin America
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Interview:Mauricio Macri To what extent will new economic reforms bolster foreign direct investment (FDI) in Argentina? MAURICIO MACRI: Our main long-term objective as a government is to advance towards zero poverty. The state has a responsibility to help those with the greatest need, and the only sustainable way to do this is by creating jobs. We must generate trust so that we can attract local and international investments from large and small companies, as well as the public sector. With…

Analysis

To the polls: Election season is under way as candidates start campaigning
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Mexico is gearing up for general elections that will be held in June 2018. The country will be going to the polls to choose a new president as well as 500 members of the Chamber of Deputies and 128 members of the Senate. Coming at a time of increased uncertainty over the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the future of free trade, the elections are set to test the direction of Mexico’s strategic relationship with the current US administration. The Issues For a majority of the 20th…