Ciudad Juarez: A Leading Destination for Manufacturing

Ciudad Juárez is one of the most important manufacturing hubs in Mexico. Due to its strong industrial base and strategic location along the U.S.-Mexico border, it plays a crucial role in global supply chains. The city has long been a preferred destination for multinational companies looking to establish operations in Mexico, benefiting from a skilled workforce and proximity to key U.S. markets.

With 321 active manufacturing sites, the city is home to a thriving maquiladora industry specializing in automotive, electronics, and medical device production. In 2024 alone, at least three new maquiladoras began operations, and one more in 2025, further strengthening Ciudad Juárez’s industrial presence and reinforcing its role as a key player in nearshoring strategies.

Employment in Ciudad Juárez’s manufacturing sector remains significant. Approximately 280,976 people work in companies operating under the IMMEX program, which facilitates production for export. This workforce sustains the growth of the region’s economy and provides opportunities for thousands of families.

The presence of well-established industrial parks, along with continuous investment in automation and advanced manufacturing technologies, has allowed the city to remain competitive in an increasingly demanding global market.

A Leading Destination for Foreign Investment and Trade

As a result, Ciudad Juárez continues to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) at a steady pace. From January to September 2024, Chihuahua received $1.25 billion in FDI, with Ciudad Juárez accounting for more than half of that figure. The ongoing expansion of industrial facilities and logistics operations suggests that this trend will continue in the coming years.

Moreover, trade between the U.S. and Mexico is another critical aspect of Ciudad Juárez’s economic importance. The city’s four commercial ports of entry—Bridge of the Americas, Ysleta, Santa Teresa, and Tornillo—serve as essential gateways for international commerce. In 2024, these ports handled 20.2% of total trade between the U.S. and Mexico, amounting to $148.7 billion in commercial transactions. This level of trade activity underscores the city’s role as a key logistics and transportation hub, enabling companies to move goods efficiently across borders.

With a growing industrial base, strong employment figures, high levels of foreign investment, and a strategic position for trade, Ciudad Juárez remains one of Mexico’s most dynamic manufacturing centers.

The city’s ability to adapt to evolving market demands, integrate new technologies, and maintain its logistical advantages will continue to make it an attractive destination for global companies looking to expand their operations in North America.

If you are looking to establish an operation in México and Ciudad Juárez is on your shortlist, TECMA is the shelter service partner you need. Tecma’s shelter program streamlines your launch, reduces costs, and ensures an efficient setup. Schedule a consultation today!