The total healthcare industry in Mexico comprising pharmaceutical drugs and medical devices and equipment is expected to achieve a compound annual growth rate of 9.6 percent from 2003 to 2008.

As Mexico develops into one of the strongest emerging economies after China, India, and Brazil, growing demand for healthcare and the low-cost advantage the country provides are making it highly attractive to importers, exporters and investors.

Mexico is the second largest medical equipment market in the Americas, behind Brazil. Mexico benefits both by its geographical proximity to the United States and the latter's financial and technological investment. The North American Free Trade Agreement has fueled export growth, helping the economy regain lost momentum and generate employment.

The market is dominated by imported products, principally from the USA. US manufacturers benefit from geographic proximity and preferential terms under NAFTA. In 2003, over 70% of Mexico's medical device imports were from the USA.

Prior to 1993, Mexico consistently ran a balance of trade deficit in medical equipment. In 1993, however, mainly due to the 'maquiladora' activity of US companies, exports soared.

The maquila program allows materials and components to be imported into Mexico duty-free, processed or assembled into products and re-exported.

Companies are able to take advantage of cheaper production costs, including competitive wages, while in close proximity to the US. The NAFTA trade agreement and the devaluation of the peso in the mid 1990s contributed to growth in this industry sector.

Are you ready to particpate in these opportunities?

Do you need a licensed Mexican import export business partner?

JACI can help you!

Contact us for more information by emailing sales@jaci-sa.com for assistance.