Nearshoring Guide

Why Mexico.
Why Now.

The convergence of USMCA trade advantages, competitive labor costs, geographic proximity, and supply chain de-risking makes Northern Mexico the most compelling manufacturing destination in the Western Hemisphere.

82%
of nearshoring absorption in top 4 states
350+
industrial projects driven by nearshoring
0%
USMCA tariff on qualifying goods
At a Glance

Mexico vs China vs US

FactorMexicoChinaUnited States
Labor Cost$4.50/hr avg$7.20/hr avg$28.50/hr avg
Transit to US1-3 days25-40 days0 days
USMCA Tariff0%25-100%0%
IP ProtectionUSMCA enforcedLimitedStrong
Time ZoneSame as US West+13-16 hrs
Nearshore Savings30-40% vs US20-30% vs USBaseline
Baja California

Key Manufacturing Sectors

28%
Medical Devices

Baja California is Mexico's #1 medical device manufacturing cluster. 67+ companies. FDA proximity advantage.

18%
Aerospace

67 established aerospace companies in BC. 17,000+ workers. 3,000+ engineering degrees per year.

22%
Electronics

Samsung, Foxconn, Panasonic — major electronics assembly in Tijuana's industrial corridors.

15%
Automotive

Toyota, Hyundai suppliers. Mexicali auto parts cluster growing rapidly with nearshoring.

12%
Logistics

Cross-border 3PL operations. Same-day truck access to San Diego, LA, Phoenix.

5%
Other Manufacturing

Food processing, textiles, furniture, plastics — diversified manufacturing base.

Programs & Incentives

Regulatory Framework

IMMEX / Maquiladora

Temporary import program — raw materials enter duty-free for manufacturing and re-export. The backbone of Mexico's export manufacturing.

USMCA Rules of Origin

Products manufactured in Mexico with sufficient regional value content qualify for zero-tariff access to the US and Canada.

San Quintín / San Felipe Tax Zones

Baja California Sur zones with reduced ISR (income tax) and IVA (VAT) rates for qualifying businesses.

Shelter Programs

Operate in Mexico without establishing a legal entity. The shelter company handles compliance, HR, customs — you focus on production.

Free Trade Zones

Designated zones with streamlined customs, reduced bureaucracy, and infrastructure support for export-oriented manufacturers.

R&D Tax Credits

Mexico offers tax incentives for research and development activities, particularly in aerospace, automotive, and technology sectors.

How We Help

Your Nearshoring Roadmap

01
Market Assessment

We analyze your operation, supply chain, and requirements to identify the optimal location in Baja California.

02
Site Selection

Tour available properties, evaluate build-to-suit options, and negotiate terms with developers.

03
Regulatory Navigation

IMMEX registration, environmental permits, municipal licenses, CFE power — we handle the bureaucracy.

04
Operational Setup

Shelter program selection, workforce recruitment, supply chain logistics, and launch support.

Ready to Move

Start your nearshoring journey
with a free market assessment

NPG provides complimentary site selection consultations for qualified manufacturers considering Baja California.

Request Assessment