Mexican small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are facing a unique moment in history—one that could transform their role within both the regional and global economy. Thanks to the momentum of nearshoring, the rising demand for products and services in North America, and the support of binational chambers of commerce, Mexican businesses now have access to tools and strategic allies that can help them expand their horizons and become key players in global value chains.
For many years, SMEs have been recognized as the heart of the Mexican economy: they generate more than 70% of the country’s jobs and account for nearly half of its GDP. Yet their presence in international markets has long been limited, hindered by challenges such as lack of financing, insufficient knowledge of regulatory requirements, and, in many cases, simply a lack of awareness of the opportunities available. Today, with the institutional backing of organizations such as the American Chamber of Commerce of Mexico (AmCham), the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Mexico (CanCham), and COPARMEX, these barriers are beginning to fade.
These organizations serve not only as platforms for business networking but also as centers for advisory services, training, and strategic guidance—resources that allow Mexican SMEs to take confident steps toward internationalization.
AmCham and CanCham: Strategic Partners for Entering North America
At the COPARMEX International Meetings 2025, the panel “Doing Business in North America: Opportunities, Challenges, and Strategic Alliances” featured a clear message from Pedro Casas Alatriste, Executive Vice President of AmCham Mexico: “Don’t try to reinvent the wheel. Connect with binational or trinational communities. There are proven paths already in place, and institutions are ready to support you.”
His advice points to a crucial element: the value of business networks. Binational communities do more than open doors—they also share the practical experiences of entrepreneurs who have already gone through the process of internationalization. This transfer of knowledge allows SMEs to mitigate risks, accelerate their learning curve, and adapt more quickly to foreign market standards.
Casas noted that AmCham has significantly strengthened its programs in recent years to connect Mexican SMEs with potential buyers, suppliers, and partners in the United States. These initiatives are about building real bridges—helping Mexican companies integrate into some of the world’s most dynamic supply chains.
Meanwhile, Rafael García, National Vice President of CanCham, emphasized that Canada represents an open and receptive market for Mexican SMEs. Sectors such as renewable energy, mining, auto parts, and specialized services all offer significant growth opportunities. To put this into perspective, García highlighted that bilateral trade between Mexico and Canada reached $50 billion in 2024, a record figure that underscores the strength and dynamism of the relationship.
But the support of these chambers goes far beyond facilitating commercial connections. They also provide legal, tax, and compliance advisory services, including guidance on ESG (environmental, social, and governance) standards, which are increasingly essential for accessing contracts and financing. In García’s words, “The real challenge lies in ensuring regulatory certainty and simplifying processes. Only then will it be possible to attract investment and successfully scale operations.”
Soft Landing: A Bridge to New Markets
Beyond advisory services and networking, another essential element now being promoted is the concept of soft landing. This approach is designed to help Mexican SMEs establish themselves more easily in markets like the United States and Canada. The support covers everything from finding strategic partners to resolving logistical, tax, and regulatory issues.
COPARMEX has taken an active role in this area, promoting programs that include:
- Business English training, crucial for negotiating contracts, participating in international trade fairs, and building relationships with foreign clients.
- Digitalization and technological transformation programs, which help companies become more efficient, transparent, and competitive in global markets.
- Financial management and access to funding, a critical component for sustaining operations during the initial phases of international expansion.
These initiatives are designed to close the structural gaps that have historically limited the international reach of Mexican SMEs.
SMEs: Drivers of North American Economic Integration
The potential is enormous. With the right support, Mexican SMEs can overcome the initial barriers that once seemed insurmountable and position themselves as central players in the economic integration of North America.
Their active participation will generate benefits that go well beyond business growth:
- The creation of quality jobs in local communities.
- The promotion of innovation through new products and solutions.
- Sustainable growth, aligned with international standards that prioritize social and environmental responsibility.
Nearshoring and binational cooperation offer a highly favorable context. But the ultimate success of this transformation will depend on the ability of SMEs to organize, professionalize, and take full advantage of the resources available. AmCham, CanCham, and COPARMEX are building the bridges. It is now up to Mexican businesses to cross them—with vision and determination.