Nearshoring in Mexico: How Water and Energy Demand Shapes the Industrial Future

At the fifth edition of Aquatech Mexico, a pivotal event in Mexico's water industry, SiiLA underscored two pressing challenges for the future of Mexico's industrial sector: water scarcity and limited access to energy. These hurdles are not distant threats, but immediate concerns that could impede the sector's growth. Urgent solutions are needed to secure these critical resources.

With participation from dozens of international companies, the expert dialogue quickly intensified, emphasizing the importance of these resources in attracting investment, especially as industrial demand continues to rise. A clear example of this growing demand is the remarkable expansion of Mexico's industrial real estate market, which, according to SiiLA Market Analytics, grew by 15% between the second half of 2022 and 2024, with over 11.7 million square meters added for manufacturing and logistics.

One of the primary issues discussed during the event was the lack of investment in Mexico's water infrastructure, posing a significant risk to industrial expansion, particularly as nearshoring continues to drive demand. Water stress in several regions of the country limits the ability to supply new companies seeking to establish industrial operations that require stable access to energy, which is also essential for growth and attracting investments. In this regard, panelists stressed that local and federal governments must collaborate more actively with the private sector to develop projects that ensure the availability and sustainability of these resources.

During his remarks, Alejandro Delgado, Country Manager Mexico at SiiLA, pointed out that beyond water and energy challenges, companies face complications related to obtaining permits to build and operate sustainably. He also noted that while some regions in the country's southeast have greater water resources, they face additional problems, such as inadequate infrastructure and a shortage of skilled labor, limiting industrial development.

Water Technology: The Future of Mexico's Industry

As industrial growth in Mexico faces critical challenges, such as water and energy shortages, the need for efficient technological solutions is more urgent than ever. According to data from CONAGUA and INEGI, between 10% and 14% of Mexico's water is consumed by the industrial sector, while agriculture accounts for around 70%. The remainder goes to public supply, underscoring the importance of implementing sustainable technologies for responsible water use.

Among the technological solutions showcased at Aquatech Mexico was direct nanofiltration, an innovative technology capable of removing micropollutants, bacteria, and viruses in a single step, improving water quality and reducing dependence on chemicals. Additionally, ultrasonic control systems were presented to prevent algae proliferation without chemicals, along with advanced groundwater monitoring methods using sensors, which optimize water management in real time.

Another noteworthy technology is the modular system for collecting and reusing rainwater, designed for urban and industrial applications. This system, which includes rainwater collection units and a filtration system, is essential in areas with high water demand and stress. Educational and training programs complement these innovations focused on water and sanitation, aimed at developing the necessary skills to implement and maintain these advances.

Throughout the event, several panelists highlighted progress in treating and recovering water-based waste, improving the sustainability of industrial operations. The participation of key representatives from various industries and international companies reflected global interest in these innovative solutions, which are crucial to addressing Mexico's water challenges.

Among the notable participants at Aquatech Mexico were Ignacio Diez and Mariela Cuartucci of Nx Filtration, Dr. Carlos M. López Vázquez of IHE Delft, Óscar Alvarado of LG Sonic, José Roberto Sánchez Rocha of UCY Mexico, Martín Argueta Hernández of VanEssen Instruments, and Karina Peña of FieldFactors. Elsa Zamarripa from Heineken also attended, underscoring the significant industries' interest in implementing sustainable water management technologies.

For more information on important events in Mexico's industrial sector, visit SiiLA REsource or contact us at contacto@siila.com.mx.