Israeli companies and ambassador spark debate in Yucatán

The presence of Israeli companies and the new Israeli Ambassador to Mexico at the Expo Pro Agro Innovación 2026 in Mérida has sparked debate and questions from civil organizations regarding the nature of strategic alliances between Yucatán and Israeli institutions.

Six Israeli companies specializing in agricultural technology, irrigation systems, and water management—including Bermad, Phytech, Treetoscope, Rivulis, Sheffa, and Raphael Valves (Irritec)—participated in the private event. The new ambassador, Yoad Magem, was also in attendance to highlight the participation of these firms.

Investigations into the matter have noted inconsistencies in official communications. While the Yucatán government previously made references to alliances with Israeli-related organisms, some of these mentions were reportedly removed from public communications following social media scrutiny. A 2021 Letter of Intent signed by former governor Mauricio Vila Dosal established mechanisms for institutional cooperation and mutual communication between the two parties.