San Luis Potosí, Sonora boost manufacturing exports and jobs in Mexico

In the fourth quarter of 2025, San Luis Potosí recorded $1.77 billion in export sales, representing 4.1% of Mexico’s total and a 9.2% annual increase. Manufacturing accounted for 99.4% of the state’s exports, with transportation equipment alone generating $4.82 billion. Local firms have deepened global links: Canel’s ships confectionery to more than 45 countries, Grupo Mercurio assembles bicycles for the U.S. brand Cannondale, and Grupo Acerero supplies steel for automotive, rail, petroleum and construction sectors.

Meanwhile, Sonora’s automotive industry, anchored by the Ford plant and its supply chain, preserved employment levels despite nationwide steel and aluminum tariffs. Export volumes rose 5% year‑on‑year, and the state added roughly 1,950 jobs by May. About 40,000 auto‑related positions are concentrated in Hermosillo, with significant activity in Nogales, Guaymas‑Empalme and Ciudad Obregón. Officials cite future growth in the semiconductor sector as a key diversification opportunity.