MEXICO IN THE GLOBAL CONTEXT OF THE SEMICONDUCTOR INDUSTRY

Abstract
The semiconductor industry constitutes a fundamental element in the global digital economy, experiencing significant reconfigurations due to geopolitical tensions and pandemic effects. This study ex- amines Mexico’s strategic positioning in the global semiconductor ecosystem during 2020-2024 employing a quantitative analysis methodology of international trade data. Results show that Mexico has registered annual FDI (foreign direct investment) growth of 12% directed primarily toward manufacturing and assembly, with three regional clusters that concentrate 85% of installed capacity. In parallel, a 28.7% increase in the sector’s added value is identified, with exports directed mainly to the United States. Mexico emerges as a manufacturing center in North America, although it faces structural challenges to ascend the value chain. The study concludes that the country possesses significant potential to improve its positioning through focused industrial policies, specialized human capital development, and strengthening of the local innovation ecosystem to integrate into higher value-added segments. Keywords - Semiconductors, Mexican Economy, Global Integration, Nearshoring.