Which Puerto Vallarta beach town is right for you?

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March 9, 2025

Riviera Nayarit — The Puerto Vallarta region is filled with sleepy beach towns, vibing party destinations and luxury resorts. Which one will you choose? (Get Your Guide)

Puerto Vallarta’s coastline twists and turns through hidden coves, golden beaches, and secluded inlets, revealing some of Mexico’s best small beach towns. Stretching from the chic resorts of Riviera Nayarit down through the unspoiled nature of the Costalegre, these coastal pockets cater to every kind of traveler.

Maybe you’re a surfer searching for the perfect break, a solitude seeker craving a peaceful retreat, or someone who simply wants to sip a margarita at a palapa-topped beach bar. No matter your travel style, there’s a beach town calling your name. The only question is: which one feels like home to you?

Sayulita

Best for: The Boho Scenester with Money to Burn

This colorful, high-energy surf town is where sun-kissed nomads and weekend warriors converge for waves, boutique shopping, and a lively bar scene that spills into the streets. Catch some waves, fuel up on fish tacos from Mary’s or a pricier plate at Tukari, and when the sun sets, follow the sound of live music for a spontaneous night out. The pocket-sized Atico Bar Cafe is a personal favorite.

San Pancho

Best For: The Soul-Searching Yogi

Sayulita’s chiller, artier sibling, San Pancho, is where you go to swap out the party scene for early-morning sun salutations and organic smoothie bowls. It’s still got the magic of the Pacific, just with fewer crowds and more community. The waves here are strong, perfect for seasoned surfers, but if your idea of a good time involves a beach blanket and a good book, this is your spot. Don’t leave without checking out the town’s creative hub, EntreAmigos.

Punta Mita

Best For: The Champagne Crowd

Punta Mita isn’t just a destination; it’s a lifestyle that includes private beach clubs, designer kaftans, and golf carts zipping between ultra-luxe resorts. Home to the Four Seasons, St. Regis, and some of the best surf breaks in the region, this gated paradise is perfect for those who like their adventure with some five-star amenities. Pro tip: Book a boat tour to Islas Marietas for a peek at the famed Hidden Beach, a cave-like cove enclosed within a rocky island. There are a few tour operators to choose from, but I like Ecotours Vallarta for their sustainable approach and small groups.

Bucerías

Best For: The Easygoing Beachcomber

Not in the mood for exclusivity but also not looking to rough it? Bucerías is exactly what you’re dreaming up. This laid-back town offers long, sandy stretches perfect for sunset strolls, low-key seafood spots serving fresh ceviche (Karen’s Place is a must), and a local artisan market that’s worth carving out an afternoon for. The vibe is relaxed, friendly, and delightfully unpretentious.

Yelapa

Best For: The Disconnected

Yelapa is what happens when you trade roads for boat rides and cell service for beach bliss. Only accessible by water, this tucked-away fishing village feels delightfully of-the-grid, making it ideal for those who want to swap connectivity for waterfall hikes and beach naps. If you see a woman selling homemade pies on the sand, don’t ask questions — just buy one. The coconut pie is life-changing, by the way.

Punta Pérula

Best For: The Crowd-Dodgers

If your idea of a beach escape involves zero hassle, no trendy bars, and more pelicans than people, Punta Pérula is your secret haven. Think glassy waters perfect for paddle boarding, wild coastlines, and an unshakable sense of off-the-grid. Its small-but-loyal following keeps the community buzzing with weekly gatherings, cook-outs, and live music, but you have to be one of the ones in the know to have any sort of finger on the pulse of the social scene.

Careyes

Best For: The High-Design, Low-Key Jetsetter

Careyes is what happens when a group of artists, visionaries, and the Pacific coastline collaborate on something truly spectacular. A magnet for the stylish and the discreet, this exclusive enclave is all about bold architecture, private beaches, and an equal appreciation for both the finer things and unspoiled natural beauty. If you’re in the mood for polo matches, avant-garde art, and breathtaking hillside villas, welcome home.

La Manzanilla

Best For: The Barefoot Eco Explorer

La Manzanilla is where nature lovers and low-key adventurers find their groove. The mangrove estuary is teeming with crocodiles, the bay is calm and swimmable, and the vibe is eco-conscious, laid back, and unpretentious. It’s a place where you can kayak at sunrise, sip a mezcal at sunset (Pata Salada is the spot), and let the day unfold at an unhurried pace.

Barra de Navidad/Melaque

Best For: The Old School Mexico Enthusiast

Paradisiac beaches at Costalegre (Jalisco) — (Alejandro Ags/Wikimedia)

Think of Puerto Vallarta and then dial the clock back 25 years. Barra de Navidad and Melaque (side-by-side towns on the same bay) serve up classic Mexican beach town with a thriving social scene but zero high-rises or all-inclusive resorts. Barra’s lagoon and fishing culture make it a fun spot to explore by boat, while Melaque’s long sandy beach is perfect for long-term travelers looking to settle in for a while. Come for the relaxed energy, and stay for the simplicity of a convenient beach life that is well-lived.

Meagan Drillinger is a New York native who has spent the past 15 years traveling around and writing about Mexico. While she’s on the road for assignments most of the time, Puerto Vallarta is her home base. Follow her travels on Instagram at @drillinjourneys or through her blog at drillinjourneys.com

State By Plate: The chorizo of México state

By

Chris Sands

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March 9, 2025

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Various shades of Mexican chorizo — Green, red or something else entirely, the chorizo of México state defines a whole region. (Cocina Delirante)

Many Mexican states are indelibly associated with a single dish. However, in the case of México state and its capital city of Toluca, the association is with a single ingredient — albeit one that has flavored countless dishes over the past 500 years.

Yes, Toluca’s history of chorizo production is that old. It dates to the first years of Spanish colonization in the early 16th century, when livestock such as cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, and chickens were introduced to the country. Hernán Cortés, the chief conquistador, was responsible for the birth of the industry in Valle de Toluca, which celebrates its quincentenary this year. Not only did he ensconce his pigs there, but he also assigned someone to run them regularly to ensure they didn’t become too fat.

The differences between Spanish and Mexican chorizo

Mexican and Spanish chorizo compared side by side. — Mexican chorizo (left) and traditional Spanish chorizo (right) are quite distinct from one another, despite the common history. (Pioneer Woman)

At that time, Spain had already established a tradition of making minced sausage from pork and pork fat in a “natural casing” (a pig’s small intestine). However, those sausages looked nothing like the ones made in Spain today. The Spanish discovery of the paprika chile pepper in Mexico used to make pimentón, gave chorizo its distinctive red coloring.

Meanwhile, in Toluca, native chorizo was distinguished from Spanish ones, most notably through feeding the pigs with corn, another Mexican ingredient previously unknown to Old World sausage makers and one that markedly changed the sausage’s flavor for the better. The addition of more chile peppers — some combination of ancho, chipotle, puya, guajillo, and chile de árbol for chorizo rojo; and serrano, and jalapeño chiles in later chorizo verde — also ensured Mexican chorizos would never resemble the Spanish version, although European ingredients like garlic and ginger would also be added, along with native onion, salt, and vinegar.

The history of chorizo production in México state

Fireworks in Toluca, México state — State capital Toluca remains the center of the Mexican chorizo universe. (Cuartoscuro)

Cortés had brought his personal pigs, cows, and sheep to Valle de Toluca by 1525. By the end of the 16th century, Toluca was not only the chorizo center for the country, but also a major source of chicharrón, bacon, ham, blood sausage, and longaniza (more on this later).

However, chorizo was by far the most famous of these pork-derived foods from Valle de Toluca, a fact confirmed by a legendary event in 1713 when the viceroy of Nueva España organized a pirámide gastronómica in Mexico City to honor a newly born prince to the House of Bourbon. All the representative dishes from the country’s various regions were present at this so-called “Monument to Gluttony” (I so hope time travel is invented during my lifetime), including chorizo toluqueño.

Today, chorizos from Toluca are generally classified by color: rojo or verde. But the latter, despite its subsequent fame, is a relatively recent invention. When Alfonso Sánchez García wrote Chorizo del Toluca: apuntes gastronómicos, a landmark tome on the history and influence of the state’s signature sausage, there was no mention of chorizo verde.

That’s likely because the book was published in 1976, and chorizo verde is thought to have been created sometime during that decade, with its invention often attributed to Texcalyacac, a municipality near Toluca.

The sausages of Toluca

Over the years, Toluca’s iconic sausages evolved to be made using specific ingredients and processes.

Chorizo rojo

The first and still most common variety of chorizo, with signature recipes common among individual producers. However, most Tolucan chorizos rojos feature minced pork mixed with a paste of garlic, vinegar, and spices like ancho, guajillo, paprika peppers, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, clove, or nutmeg. The percentage of pork relative to pork fat is about 80:20, with chorizo air-dried and aged for one or two days to a week. Most Mexican chorizo is fresh rather than smoked or cured and thus must be cooked before serving.

Chorizo verde

Red chorizo isn’t just made in México state. However, green chorizo is unique to the state. As noted, it only began to be made in the 1960s or 1970s, but is now a sought-after culinary ingredient. The ingredients that give this distinctive sausage its color may vary, but typically originate from tomatillos or herbs or spices such as cilantro, oregano, bay leaves, pumpkin seeds, and poblano peppers. No salt is used for curing.

Longaniza

Like chorizo, longaniza’s roots are in Spain. But it’s instantly identifiable in Mexico due to its color (it’s more maroon than red thanks to the use of achiote along with paprika and guajillo peppers) and size. Chorizo is often tied off in servings of about 20 centimeters (7.8 inches) whereas longaniza, as the name might suggest, is longer and thus has more varied shapes. Quality was also a differentiator in the past, as chorizo was made from high-quality pork, while longaniza was traditionally made from cheaper portions.

Longaniza verde versions are made, but not commonly.

Dishes featuring chorizo in México state

Chorizo has long since transcended the borders of México state, in the sense that it’s also made elsewhere and is used as an ingredient in a staggering number of regional recipes. Like bacon, it’s a common complement to eggs for breakfast. But it’s also added in everything from tacos, tortas, chilaquiles, and quesadillas to myriad stews and sauces. Notably, it’s also a delicious pizza topping.

For the best introduction to chorizo in el estilo de Toluca, order a pambazo de chorizo con papas — a signature regional sandwich featuring chorizo and potatoes — ideally during the city’s annual Expo Chorizo, a monument to gluttony not quite on the order of the Gastronomic Pyramid in 1713, but an event gaining in influence and importance. The 2025 edition is slated for July 19–20.

The living cultural legacy of chorizo in Toluca

No other state in Mexico and no other country, including Spain, has ever achieved the quality of chorizos made in Toluca, a fact as true today as it was 500 years ago. As a legacy of this tradition, the term choricero is sometimes used synonymously with toluqueño, and indeed Los Choriceros remains one of the nicknames for Toluca’s football (soccer) club, which competes in Liga MX.

Chris Sands is the Cabo San Lucas local expert for the USA Today travel website 10 Best, writer of Fodor’s Los Cabos travel guidebook and a contributor to numerous websites and publications, including Tasting Table, Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, Forbes Travel Guide, Porthole Cruise, Cabo Living and Mexico News Daily. His specialty is travel-related content and lifestyle features focused on food, wine and golf.

Taste of Mexico: Quelites

By

María Meléndez

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March 8, 2025

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Baskets of wild quelites — Over the centuries, nothing has flavored Mexican cuisine, or helped cultivate the harvest quite like quelites. (Xcaret)

Quelites are a very important part of Mexican cuisine, but in this modern day and age, they seem like they’re so chronically out of fashion that the world (and Mexico) is forgetting them.

I asked ChatGPT about the flavor of Mexico, and it responded with a description that any Mexican beer brand would love for its commercial. It spoke of the taste of celebration, vibrant colors, and rich traditions. When I tried to get it to describe the flavor of various Mexican ingredients, it said that Mexico has “the taste of the street, of cravings, and of memory.” What does that even mean?

What does Mexican food actually taste like?

A woman bites into a taco as rainbows explode and a choir of angels descends from the heavens. — This. Mexican food tastes like this. (Canva)

In many ways, the essence of Mexican cuisine is characterized by a fresh, herbal flavor. For instance, corn has a subtle grassy taste, while some chiles leave a herbal aftertaste once the heat subsides.

The connection to fresh herbs can be traced back to pre-Hispanic cultures, where the wild herbs that grew in fields and alongside crops held significance equal to that of the fruits themselves. Edible wild herbs, known as quelites or quilitl in Nahuatl, were associated with deities, rituals, and festivities. In some cultures, they were so valued that they could serve as the main dish, a complement to corn or beans, an ingredient in ritual recipes, or even as part of medicinal treatments. Ultimately, these herbs were incorporated into everyday life by everyone.

However, with the Spanish conquest, the consumption of European cereals and vegetables was promoted, leading to a decline in the use of quelites. Fast forward to today, and many of these wild herbs are in danger of becoming extinct, particularly in urban areas where our diets have largely forgotten them. This is unfortunate, as until a few decades ago, quelites played an important role in our culinary traditions and flavors.

So what are quelites?

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To date, over 500 species of quelites have been identified. These herbs were so significant to the Mexica that they even had a goddess dedicated to them named Quilaztli, who was also associated with fertility.

Quelites played a vital role in the milpa system, which optimized harvests by planting beans, corn, squash, and chiles together. They not only protected the crops but some species even acted as natural pesticides.

In terms of nutritional value, quelites are remarkably rich, like spinach on steroids. Certain quelites offer substantial amounts of protein, calcium, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds, making them essential for regular consumption.

Epazote

Epazote is essential when eating beans because it contains a substance that aids digestion. In addition to its digestive benefits, epazote also has antiparasitic, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties; it’s a great source of vitamine A, calcium, and magnesium. However, like everything, excessive consumption can have negative health effects.

So, how much is too much? It’s recommended to consume no more than five leaves. Typically, epazote is cooked for a long time to maximize its benefits.

You can think of epazote as a type of Mexican bay leaf. It has an intense, fragrant, fresh, and spicy flavor, so it’s important not to overuse it. It can be enjoyed fresh, cooked, or dried, and its flavor changes depending on how it’s prepared — but it’s always delicious.

Quintonil

Not only is Quintonil the name of a two-Michelin-star restaurant in Mexico City, but it is also a green and purple leafy herb that is a distant cousin of amaranth. This herb held significant value in pre-Hispanic cultures, as it was associated with life and death. Quintoniles were highly regarded because it was believed that an Aztec warrior could survive solely on quintoniles. I thought this was a total exaggeration until thanks to modern science, we now know that they are rich in protein, calcium, and vitamin C, containing three times more iron than spinach.

You can enjoy quintoniles in a variety of dishes: if tender you can eat them raw in salads, smoothies, and even on top of strong flavored tacos. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly and remove the stem. Their flavor is reminiscent of other leafy greens like spinach, arugula, or watercress, but with a touch of sweetness that sets this herb apart.

Papaloquelite

In Nahuatl, papalotl means “butterfly,” which is fitting for this butterfly-shaped herb. This queliteis associated with fertility and the goddess Xochiquetzal, and it was traditionally used to bless crops. Papaloquelite is consumed fresh and offers a layered taste experience: it begins with a tangy, citrus-like acidity, followed by a bitterness reminiscent of arugula, and concludes with a peppery kick. This herb is a valuable addition to your diet as it is rich in antioxidants, iron, zinc, and vitamin C.

Papaloquelite is particularly popular in the state of Puebla. If you have ever tasted a cemita poblana or tacos from this region, you’ve likely already experienced its unique flavor. It is especially delightful when finely chopped and added to guacamole.

Amigos, there are no excuses — make sure to enjoy your Mexican greens. They will keep you healthy, strong, and happy with their vibrant explosion of flavors.

These flavors, along with other quelites that we will explore in future articles, represent the essence of Mexican cuisine. I hope that after this article is published, ChatGPT can provide a better answer.

María Meléndez is a Mexico City food blogger and influencer.

Tariffs, Tariffs, Tariffs!

By

Sarah DeVries

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March 8, 2025

11

IMG_20250308_104803_(850_x_567_pixel) — (POTUS/X)

Well, March 4th came and went. It was the day that President Trump declared that the tariffs on the US’s closest trading partners would take effect. There would be no way to avoid them this time, he said.

Except there would be. Just yesterday (as of this writing), it was announced that tariffs would not go into effect — yet — in the auto industry. All they had to do was ask nicely. Sigh.

Shipping containers a the Manzanillo port — Will tariffs ever take effect? Maybe, maybe not, but that’s not the point. (Cuartoscuro)

Many, including me, thought that we would ultimately reach a deal before the date arrived. We didn’t, because there was no deal to be made, nothing Trump wanted, or thought he wanted, that we hadn’t yet given him.

As a negotiating tool, then, the tariffs seem to make little sense. They will almost certainly hurt US consumers, and will do nothing to stem the tide of drugs more than we already have that the U.S. demands. You’d think someone so well-versed in business would understand the basics of supply and demand, after all. Meanwhile, according to official measures, the possibility of a U.S. recession is increasing.

RIP, NAFTA and USMCA

Most bewildering of all, though, is his stepping out of a North American trade deal that he himself closed. At the time — during his first term — USMCA was hailed as a great achievement by the same person who now wants to toss it out the window.

Signing ceremony for the USMCA in 2018 — President Donald Trump, Justin Trudeau of Canada and former President Enrique Peña Nieto signed the USMCA trade deal in 2018. (Wikimedia Commons)

For someone who talks constantly about what’s fair or not, he does not seem to have a real grasp on what it means. When talking about himself, “fair” means “good for me.” It’s unclear what he thinks “fair” for those affected by his behavior means. More than trying to “protect America,” the tariffs seem to be more for the purpose of chest-beating. “I am in charge; try to appease me.”

And oh, we’re trying.

But we’re also prepared to not be successful. And as any boxer will tell you, ducking and weaving is a big chunk of the game.

Like it or not, trade interconnectedness is our home now

If you’ve been reading my column for any amount of time, you’ve probably got a fairly good idea of my own politics. I am a classic bleeding-heart liberal; really, a socialist. When NAFTA took effect and the U.S. moved many of its manufacturing jobs to Mexico, I frowned. Many of the communities those manufacturing jobs were lifted from have never recovered, and people suffered greatly; in many cases, they never economically recovered, which I think many political analysts would agree contributed both to the “deaths of despair” and the economic malaise of a previously-stable blue collar class that helped, at least the first time around, to bring Trump into power in the first place.

Now, we stand poised to cause that same kind of pain to Mexican workers. And if there’s one thing Trump has communicated to the world, it’s that deals with the U.S. no longer mean anything. A new president can just decide he doesn’t like them and pull out. That puts not just Mexico, but the entire world in a tricky spot.

Mexican workers, of course, were not at fault for their US counterparts’ suffering; it was the companies trying to make a buck — or a lot more bucks — because that’s how the game of capitalism is played. Incidentally, it’s also why I really, really don’t like the game of capitalism. We need a new game.

But here we are. Nobody at the time asked me what I thought, and plus, I was 13. And besides, I’m older now and a realist: you have to start from where you are. Tearing everything down to rebuild later, caring not if people are trampled and maimed in the process, is childish and cruel. How about we not cause unnecessary pain?

Because the reality now is that virtually no country can stand alone when it comes to manufacturing, especially. You get minerals from this place, steel from this place, skilled hands in this other place — and even that’s a simplification. Whether we like it or not, we are now interconnected. Trying for a divorce at this point is akin to ripping conjoined twins from one another; it’s not going to end well, and everyone’s going to get hurt, if they survive at all.

Claudia, ducking and weaving with the best of them

As I wrote a couple of weeks ago, I believe that part of the reason Trump and Claudia “get along” so well is the standard disposition of all Mexican politicians: we know how to deal with gangsters down here. And Trump is a mob boss of a leader if there ever was one.

While we’re still not sure what will happen, we do know that Mexico, under President Sheinbaum’s leadership, stands at the ready. Ducking and weaving, yes. Cowering, no.

Claudia Sheinbaum talking to reporters about Donald Trump wanting to speed up USMCA reveiw. She's holding two fingers up as she rests her right arm on the presidential podium in the National Palace — (Daniel Augusto/Cuartoscuro)

Among her Plans A, B, C, and D are a push toward a kind of Mexican nationalism that already lives on the surface. A “buy Mexican” campaign has already begun, complete with suggestions of Mexican stores and products to support.

Will this mean anything for how welcome “Trump’s people” are in Mexico? I suspect that, mostly, it will not. Unlike Americans, Mexicans seem to be pretty adept at being able to tell the difference between people from a place and their respective governments.

Post Script

There’s a gruesome part in the dark comedy The Ice Harvest, about a Christmas-time heist. In a home in the middle of the night, the wife of a gangster discovers another character has broken into her house. Her husband comes down, and immediately shoots his wife. “I think you’re overestimating how much I love my wife,” he says.

That’s kind of what it feels like for all of us to be at Trump’s mercy right now. Thankfully, and sadly, Mexico has experience dealing with this kind of dude.

Sarah DeVries is a writer and translator based in Xalapa, Veracruz. She can be reached through her website, sarahedevries.substack.com.

A perfect day in San José del Cabo: A guide for the quintessential 24-hour visit

By

Chris Sands

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March 8, 2025

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One day in San José del Cabo needs something from this list — If you've only got 24 hours in Mexico's luxury capital, what should you do? (Flora Farms)

San José del Cabo has a lot going for it. It’s by far the most sophisticated and historic of Los Cabos’ four major tourist areas — San José, Cabo San Lucas, the Scenic Route, and the East Cape — with the most vibrant cultural scene and the best dining, thanks to its acclaimed farm-to-table restaurants. For these reasons, many of the four million people who travel to Los Cabos annually choose a hotel here.

However, for those that don’t — and it bears noting that about half of Los Cabos’ hotel inventory of 18,000 or so rooms are in Cabo San Lucas, its most popular and populous city, and the Scenic Route also has more available rooms than San José del Cabo — it’s still possible (and highly recommended) to spend at least one day enjoying the attractions in this remarkable locale, whose history dates back to the establishment of a Jesuit mission in 1730.

Morning: Puerto Los Cabos Golf Course

The fifth hole of the Puerto Los Cabos golf course in San José de los Cabos. — Puerto Los Cabos golf course. (Puerto Los Cabos)

Golf and fishing are the most iconic activities in Los Cabos. I highly recommend trying both at least once, even if you’re not an avid golfer or angler, as there’s more to these experiences locally than you might imagine. In the case of the former, that often means comfort stations with delicious food and drinks.

Our day in San José del Cabo begins at Puerto Los Cabos, one of the best and most interesting of Los Cabos’ 18 currently operating golf courses thanks to layouts from two major champions turned course designers: Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman. When it opened in 2007, there were nine-hole layouts from the “Golden Bear” and “the Great White Shark”, but the idea was that each would eventually return to expand their nines into complete 18-hole courses. Only Nicklaus did, at least to date, so Puerto Los Cabos joined Palmilla as the only two golf courses in Los Cabos to offer 27 holes.

However, I’m not suggesting you play that many. Most players choose two of the nine-hole layouts (from Nicklaus’ Ocean, Vista, and Norman’s Mission) to play 18. All feature spectacular views and comfort stations with an array of tasty options. Since you’ve teed off in the morning, breakfast tacos with egg and bacon or egg and chorizo are preferred. But since you’ll visit at least twice, try the seasonal fruit and yogurt, too, or sample steak or shrimp tacos, quesadillas, burritos, or empanadas.

Fresh juices are popular before noon, but you’re on vacation, so no one will judge if you want to add some vodka or tequila and transform that orange juice into a screwdriver or tequila sunrise.

Lunch & Early Afternoon: Flora Farms

Flora Farms sunflower garden — Celebrity favourite Flora Farms is a must for lunch. (Flora Farms)

Don’t worry. Even with golf carts and comfort food stops, you’ll burn enough energy to have an appetite for lunch. Flora Farms kicked off the farm-to-table movement in Los Cabos, and its exceptional on-site restaurant (Flora’s Field Kitchen) is so good that complimentary dinners have been included in Academy Awards swag bags.

The restaurant is indeed particularly magical at night, but during the day the fields of the 25-acre working farm where ingredients are sourced are a more visible part of the experience. Even more to the point, lunchtime visits allow the opportunity to enjoy all the other great features at Flora Farms, including guided tours with visits to the onsite grocery, plus art classes, cooking classes, and spa treatments.

A visit to the Farm Spa & Salon is the ideal way to relax and loosen up tense muscles after a morning on the golf links. Treatments include a variety of relaxing massages, with salon services ranging from facials and mani/pedis to hairstyling and men’s beard and mustache shaves.

Late Afternoon: Gallery District

Art Walk is one of the most beloved and long-running events in Los Cabos. (Art Walk San José/Instagram)

After your rejuvenating visit to Flora Farms, it’s time to experience San José del Cabo’s most iconic feature: its downtown Gallery District. Thursday night Art Walks are the city’s most beloved seasonal event and with good reason — not only are they a spotlight for San José’s vibrant arts scene, but for its charming downtown area with notable highlights like the old Catholic church (Parroquia Misión San José del Cabo) and City Hall with its distinguishing clock tower.

If you visit during Art Walk you can see it all for yourself, but since these nights only about 30 days per year out of 365, chances are you won’t. Don’t worry, Cabo Adventures’ Art and Wine Evenings in San José del Cabo is a good substitute. Round-trip transportation from area hotels is one of the perks. However, since you’re already there strolling after your pampering massages you can simply meet up from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. for a guided tour of downtown pleasures, along with wine and an appetizer or two to hold you over until dinner.

The tour includes a visit to the plaza principal, Plaza Mijares, and its most historic monument, Misión San José del Cabo, as well as stops in signature Gallery District art galleries, including Emotions By Corsica and Ivan Guaderrama’s Interactive Art Gallery, with time set aside for you to browse and shop on your own among the many galleries in this trendy, papel picado festooned neighborhood near the main square. A primer in cigar making at Maestro Torcedor Cigars is also a tour specialty.

Dinner & Overnight: Acre Restaurant & Cocktail Bar, Acre Treehouses

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Acre Resort, Restaurant & Cocktail Bar (@acreresort)

You’ve now seen the sights, engaged in one of the city’s best activities, and eaten at its most popular restaurant, which has also been awarded a Bib Gourmand for value and a Green Star for sustainability by the Michelin Guide. For dinner, you’re off to another acclaimed farm-to-table restaurant with its own Michelin Guide plaudits (it too has a Green Star, and earned Recommended status).

That eatery, Acre Restaurant and Cocktail Bar, showcases a memorable dining experience on a 25-acre farm. Like Flora Farms, it offers cooking classes and an exceptional on-site spa. However, only Acre, among all the places one can stay in Los Cabos (remember, this is a 24-hour itinerary) boasts treehouse accommodations.

Of course, these aren’t like the treehouses you built as a kid. Rather, these treehouses, designed in Baja California Sur’s distinctive palo de arco architectural style, reflect the style of laid-back luxury for which Los Cabos is famous. So after your amazing dinner, with its elevated expression of fresh local ingredients, you’ll also sleep in an elevated fashion, content that you’ve just experienced the best of San José del Cabo.

Chris Sands is the Cabo San Lucas local expert for the USA Today travel website 10 Best, writer of Fodor’s Los Cabos travel guidebook and a contributor to numerous websites and publications, including Tasting Table, Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, Forbes Travel Guide, Porthole Cruise, Cabo Living and Mexico News Daily. His specialty is travel-related content and lifestyle features focused on food, wine and golf.

Something fascinating is brewing among the Mexican people: A perspective from our CEO

By

Travis Bembenek

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March 8, 2025

31

President Claudia Sheinbaum in a pink dress looks out over a crowd in Mexico City Zócalo with the National Palace and a Mexican flag in the background — President Claudia Sheinbaum looks out over the Mexico City Zócalo in January. (Presidencia)

A year and a half ago, I wrote a column for Mexico’s independence day arguing that I thought it was time for Mexico to show more swagger on the world stage. My point was that I thought the country needed to be more confident and assertive by being more vocal about its place in the world — including its economic strategic importance and cultural strengths and history.

Don’t get me wrong, Mexicans love their food, their music, their traditions — they are famous for being some of most entertaining fans at any World Cup fútbol event! But I have always felt that Mexicans downplay their country’s own strengths: very proud of being Mexican, but mixed feelings for Mexico.

A Mexican fan in a luchador mask shows off his jersey at a Caribbean Series championship game — While Mexican sports fans’ pride is impressive, Mexican national pride is limited in some ways. (Charros de Jalisco)

As an American, I grew up being taught that the U.S. is the best country in the world. French and British friends tell me that they were taught the same about their countries. I have never heard that from Mexicans.

To begin with, there has always been a fascination with Spain that is bewildering to me. Of course I understand the strong family roots that many Mexicans have with the Spanish. I also understand that the Spanish have made many significant positive contributions to the country — but they have done some pretty bad stuff too! A high level of respect and admiration for Spain is certainly warranted; but for many Mexicans, especially wealthier ones, it feels like much more than that. I have been to countless fancy parties in Mexico where the food is paella, the music is flamenco, the drinks are sangria, and the conversation is around upcoming vacations to Madrid or Barcelona.

Then there is the “little brother inferiority complex” that I feel Mexico has in the business world by being so geographically close to the United States. The U.S. economy is so much larger, the per capita GDP of the U.S. so much higher and the US dollar so much stronger, that this is understandable — albeit unfortunate.

Now, Mexico is an increasingly important and intertwined partner of the U.S. Evidence of this is everywhere — from the co-production of many manufactured goods between both nations, to Mexico being the No. 1 producer of goods that the U.S. imports, to the massive amount of Americans that love taking vacations to the country each year.

Supporters of AMLO during his sixth report to the nation on Sept. 1, 2024 — Though beloved by his supporters, former President López Obrador remained a divisive figure throughout his presidency. (Daniel Augusto/Cuartoscuro)

I have not seen things changing much over the years — until recently. It first started under the former president, AMLO. He was a clear nationalist — calling for more pride in Mexico’s cultural heritage, prioritizing investments in the Yucatán Peninsula and Oaxaca to showcase Maya and other Indigenous cultures, and demanding that other countries hand back cultural relics that had somehow found their way out of the country. AMLO was even proud to have rarely left the country during his term, setting foot outside of Mexico only three times in six years! Despite AMLO’s fervent efforts to increase levels of national pride, I would argue that it only worked with a portion of the population — mostly with those that voted for him. To those that didn’t vote for him, he remained so politically polarizing that he really was never able to rally the country to unify around many of his causes.

Said differently, AMLO began a cycle of increased national pride from Mexicans, but was not able to bring unity. Now however, we are rapidly seeing a convergence of both national pride AND unity amongst the population like I have never seen before, due to two main factors:

1. President Sheinbaum has demonstrated herself to be a highly competent, mature, calm and inspiring leader. Despite many fears to the contrary, she has charted her own path in many ways different from her predecessor. This has helped her win over the many critics who failed to get behind AMLO. I have heard countless Mexicans express genuine pride in how she has handled the country thus far.

2. President Trump has significantly helped unify Mexicans. From violating the USMCA trade agreement with tariffs against Mexico, to vowing to deport large numbers of Mexicans living in the U.S., to threatening to send U.S. troops into the country to “take out the cartels,” Mexicans have been faced with many issues to rally around. And rally they have: Both national pride and political unity have quickly increased.

President Sheinbaum carries a Mexican flag, flanked by military, representing national pride in Mexico — President Sheinbaum bears a Mexican flag at the national celebration of Flag Day in February. (Presidencia)

Sheinbaum’s popularity with Mexicans continues to hit impressive levels, reaching as high as 85% in some recent polls. Mexican business leaders who just weeks ago lamented judicial reform, energy policy and government spending priorities have at least temporarily set concerns aside and are now rallying being their presidenta as she skillfully takes on Trump on a variety of key issues.

Just last week, Sheinbaum repeated a request for Spain to apologize for abuses that took place during the conquest of the Aztec empire. And she has organized a rally in Mexico City’s massive Zócalo plaza this Sunday to publicly respond to Trump’s tariffs in front of what will likely be hundreds of thousands of people.

The past weeks have not been easy for Mexico and uncertainty from the United States will most definitely cause some tough times for Mexicans in the months ahead. But there is something special stirring in the country. The current global events and Sheinbaum’s leadership ultimately might succeed in creating a lasting and profound level of increased national pride and unity in Mexico. As we increasingly see a lack of unity and a decreased sense of national pride in many countries around the world, Mexico might be a shining example of a country with success in these important areas. Let’s hope it lasts and that it brings a lasting positive impact to the country!

Travis Bembenek is the CEO of Mexico News Daily and has been living, working or playing in Mexico for nearly 30 years.

NFL stars buy Osos de Monterrey, betting on Mexico’s love of American football

By

MND Staff

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March 7, 2025

3

A helmet and gloves with the Osos de Monterrey LFA football team's new branding — The Monterrey team, formerly known as the Fundidores, has rebranded as the Osos de Monterrey under its new ownership. (Fundidores LFA/Facebook)

American football, which has been played in Mexico for over 100 years, might be on the brink of significant growth following a major investment by a U.S.-based group that includes some big names from the NFL.

Former NFL All-Pro center Ryan Kalil and former NBA All-Star Blake Griffin have led a consortium of investors in acquiring the Monterrey Bears of the eight-team Liga de Fútbol Americano Profesional (LFA).

So… bought a football team with some buddies. 🏈 Introducing OSOS Monterrey. A new era of football in Mexico has begun—follow @OsosLFA @LFA_Mex pic.twitter.com/I39J4kRVKQ

— Ryan Kalil (@ryankalil) January 29, 2025

Previously known as the Fundidores (Smelters), the team has since been rebranded the Osos (Bears) by the group, which announced the purchase of the professional team in late January. The price was reported to be over US $1 million, though no exact figure was disclosed.

Other investors include some NFL names well-known to fans: Christian McCaffrey and George Kittle (San Francisco 49ers); Sam Darnold (Minnesota Vikings); Julius Peppers, Luke Kuechly and Ron Rivera (Carolina Panthers); and sports podcasters Dan “Big Cat” Katz and Eric Sollenberger.

The new ownership group marks a pivotal moment for the LFA, which has slowly expanded from four teams since its inception in 2016.

Though some LFA players have a sprinkling of National Football League (NFL) or Canadian Football League (CFL) experience, most of them are drafted from the ONEFA and the Conadiep — two long-standing, collegiate American football leagues in Mexico, with over 50 teams between them.

Athletes Ryan Kalil and Blake Griffin pose for a portrait together in casual clothing — Former NFL All-Pro center Ryan Kalil and former NBA All-Star Blake Griffin lead the group of investors that bought the Monterrey football team. (Courtesy)

LFA, meanwhile, has been established as a professional league. Its growth has been supported not only by Mexico’s strong collegiate system, but also by the popularity of the NFL in Mexico. Later this year, Mexico City is slated to host its sixth regular-season NFL game, although the Sports Business Journal recently reported the game might be in peril.

The NFL counts over 46 million fans in Mexico, according to ESPN, making it the largest fan base outside of the United States — ahead of No. 2 Brazil and No. 3 Canada. Moreover, Latinos are the fastest-growing fan base in the NFL.

The northern city of Monterrey, home of the Osos and just a three-hour drive from football-crazy Texas, boasts a population of over 5 million people and has long been a hotbed for football, with fans flocking to see collegiate powerhouse Monterrey Tech for decades.

The Monterrey Fundidors joined the LFA in 2017, one year after the league was founded with four teams, all based in greater Mexico City. The league now includes teams such as the 2023 and 2024 LFA champion Chihuahua Caudillos (Warlords), the Ciudad Juárez Jefes (Chiefs), the Puebla Arcángeles and the Saltillo Dinos.

Bolstered by an alliance with the CFL, the league has typically played its season from late February through April, culminating in the Tazón México (México Bowl), although opening week this year will be in May.

The Osos are tied for second in the league’s short history with four playoff appearances, and they won the Tazón México in 2022 as the Fundidores.

“It’s been a really exciting opportunity to see how [Monterrey] responds to football,” Kalil said in an interview with ESPN. “I think there’s a great opportunity for us to build a fan base that is excited about us, and excited about the LFA as well.”

A banner showing the Osos de Monterrey team name, helmet and an image of a bear snarling — The newly-dubbed Osos will be the subject of a documentary focusing on the team’s journey. (Osos de Monterrey)

Under their new ownership, the Osos will not only focus on football but also produce a documentary showcasing the team’s journey and the lives of its players. It aims to highlight the passion and dedication of Mexican football players, many of whom play for the love of the game rather than financial gain.

The LFA has a structured salary system, with different levels of pay based on a variety of factors. The salary cap for each team is reportedly 2 million pesos (US $98,500). Each squad can have up to five foreigners plus two Canadians, and it’s those players who earn the most, followed by each team’s two designated “franchise players.”

Preparation for the 2025 season, which will start in May, is underway and included a draft of players, conducted March 1 in Mexico City.

Additionally, the LFA is supporting the continued development of women’s flag football, which is on the rise in Mexico. In 2022, Mexico stunned the United States to claim the gold medal in women’s flag football at the World Games.

The purchase of the Bears by the U.S.-based consortium echoes the purchase of the Welsh soccer club Wrexham by American actors Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds.

The duo famously produced “Welcome to Wrexham,” an Emmy-award-winning FX documentary that has helped turn around the fate of the once lowly team.

Last year, McElhenney and Reynolds expanded their passion by buying a stake in Club Necaxa, a struggling soccer team in Mexico’s top professional league, Liga MX. That group of owners includes actress Eva Longoria, San Francisco Giants pitcher Justin Verlander, model Kate Upton and NFL player Odell Beckham Jr.

With reports from ESPN Deportes, Récord, AtoZ Sports and PR Newswire

The peso holds steady amid tariff uncertainty: Friday’s mañanera recapped

By

MND Staff

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March 7, 2025

6

President Claudia Sheinbaum smiles from behind a podium at her morning press conference — Sheinbaum attributed the peso's performance to confidence in the Mexican economy. (Presidencia)

The United States’ on-again, off-again tariffs were once again a major topic of discussion at President Claudia Sheinbaum’s Friday morning press conference.

Sheinbaum’s final press conference of the week came a day after United States President Donald Trump announced he had “agreed that Mexico will not be required to pay Tariffs on anything that falls under the USMCA Agreement” until April 2.

That announcement came two days after the United States imposed blanket 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico, and shortly after a call between Sheinbaum and Trump.

No secret pact with Trump

A reporter asked Sheinbaum whether Trump asked for “something else” during their call on Thursday.

“What do you mean something else,” retorted the president.

“I don’t know, more security,” said the reporter, probing to see whether Sheinbaum had made any additional commitment a month after she agreed to deploy 10,000 National Guard troops to Mexico’s northern border as part of a deal with Trump to stave off the implementation of tariffs in early February.

Sheinbaum rejected a reporter’s implication that she might have agreed to provide more border deployments or similar security guarantees on her call with U.S. President Trump. (Elizabeth Ruiz/Cuartoscuro)

“I made the commitment to not lie, not steal and not betray the people,” Sheinbaum said.

“We don’t lie, there is no negotiation in the dark with the United States. No,” she said.

Sheinbaum reiterated that she spoke about Mexico’s security results in her call with Trump.

She stressed that her government is taking action against organized crime “not only so that fentanyl doesn’t reach the United States, but also because we have a responsibility with the people of Mexico to achieve peace and security.”

Sheinbaum said she “simply” told Trump that Mexico is “going to continue working” to combat crime and continue “collaborating” with the United States on security issues “within the framework of the general [security] agreement reached at a meeting in Washington last week.”

Mexican officials including Foreign Affairs Minister Juan Ramón de la Fuente and Security Minister Omar García Harfuch discussed security issues with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and other U.S. officials at a meeting in the U.S. capital on Feb. 27.

In a social media post on Thursday announcing his decision to suspend tariffs on imports from Mexico, Trump said that he and Sheinbaum “are working hard, together, on the Border, both in terms of stopping Illegal Aliens from entering the United States and, likewise, stopping Fentanyl.”

A post from Donald Trump on his social media platform Truth Social — Trump announced the agreement to delay the implementation of most tariffs until April on his social platform Truth Social. (Donald Trump/Truth Social)

“Thank you to President Sheinbaum for your hard work and cooperation,” he added.

Mexican peso largely withstood tariff pressure

Sheinbaum highlighted that the Mexican peso didn’t suffer a major depreciation despite the United States’ imposition of 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico on Tuesday.

“The economy of Mexico is strong and it was reflected in the peso. … When they announced 25% tariffs, yes there was a small devaluation, but it was in centavos, it didn’t even get to 21 [to the US dollar],” she said.

According to Reuters, the peso did appreciate to 21 to the greenback on Tuesday, but Bloomberg recorded the currency’s weakest position at 20.98 to the dollar.

The Bank of Mexico’s USD:MXN rate at the close of trading on Friday was 20.27. Based on central bank data the peso appreciated 1.5% this week.

Sheinbaum attributed the peso’s performance after U.S. tariffs were implemented to “confidence in the Mexican economy, the work the Bank of Mexico does … [and] international reserves.”

Tariff suspension ‘opens a very big opportunity for investment’

Sheinbaum said that Trump’s announcement that there won’t be tariffs on most imports from Mexico (at least until early April) “obviously opens a very big opportunity for investment in our country once again.”

Investment in Mexico “has a lot to do with the internal market and exporting,” she said.

“Obviously if you’re going to invest to export, [Trump] saying that ‘there won’t be tariffs and there is an agreement [between Mexico and the United States]’ opens up a lot of possibilities,” Sheinbaum said.

A "hecho en Mexico" sign at a grocery store — Sheinbaum highlighted opportunities to strengthen the domestic market and reduce Mexico’s dependence on imports. (Galo Cañas/Cuartoscuro)

“Now, remember that we want to strongly favor investment not just for exporting, but also to boost the internal market and reduce imports from other parts of the world, particularly Asia,” she said.

Earlier in Sheinbaum’s Friday press conference, the Mexico country manager of Latin American e-commerce giant Mercado Libre announced the company will invest US $3.4 billion in Mexico this year, while the president of Sempra Infrastructure confirmed that that firm is developing two new projects in Baja California at a cost of US $3.5 billion.

Mexico received almost US $37 billion in foreign direct investment last year, according to preliminary data from the federal Economy Ministry.

By Mexico News Daily chief staff writer Peter Davies ([email protected])

Ebrard: Up to 90% of exports to US could avoid tariffs

By

MND Staff

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March 7, 2025

7

Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard gestures while standing at a podium as President Claudia Sheinbaum looks on — Between 10% and 12% of Mexican exporters will be unable to comply with the new deal and will face tariffs, Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard said Friday. (Galo Cañas/Cuartoscuro)

Between 85% and 90% of Mexican goods exported to the United States won’t be subject to tariffs as a result of U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to suspend tariffs on imports from Mexico covered by the USMCA free trade pact.

That was the estimate given by Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard at President Claudia Sheinbaum’s morning press conference on Friday.

Two photos, one of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and another of U.S. President Donald Trump, who said Sheinbaum inspired his new anti-drug campaign — Trump announced his agreement with Sheinbaum for a temporary tariff reprieve after their Thursday phone call. (Presidencia, Gage Skidmore)

After a call with Sheinbaum on Thursday, Trump announced that he had “agreed that Mexico will not be required to pay Tariffs on anything that falls under the USMCA Agreement” until April 2.

The United States imposed 25% tariffs on all imports from Mexico and most imports from Canada on Tuesday due to what the White House said was the two countries’ failure to adequately stem the flow of “lethal drugs” such as fentanyl into the U.S.

According to a White House fact sheet issued on Thursday, “duties imposed to address the flow of illicit drugs across our borders are now:

25% tariffs on goods that do not satisfy U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) rules of origin.
A lower 10% tariff on those energy products imported from Canada that fall outside the USMCA preference.
A lower 10% tariff on any potash imported from Canada and Mexico that falls outside the USMCA preference.
No tariffs on those goods from Canada and Mexico that claim and qualify for USMCA preference.

Vast majority of trade will occur under USMCA, says Ebrard

Ebrard explained that some companies in Mexico don’t export goods to the United States under the terms of the USMCA, but rather “resort” to “most-favored nation” status.

They do so, he explained, because “it’s more expensive” for them to comply with USMCA rules, especially rules of origin, than to have their goods subject to most-favored nation status tariffs.

Ebrard said that “normally” more than half of “our trade” occurs under the rules of the USMCA.

However, he asserted that “a very significant number” of the companies that have chosen to export goods to the United States in accordance with most favored nation status rather than under the USMCA can “easily or without major difficulty” comply with the rules of the North American free trade pact and thus avoid tariffs, at least until April 2.

“We estimate that [goods exported under USMCA] will increase to more or less 85% [to] 90% of foreign trade from Mexico to the United States,” Ebrard said.

Workers at a General Motors assembly plant in Mexico — Companies in the automotive sector could struggle to comply with USMCA guidelines, especially regulations for the origin of parts and materials. Those that can’t comply face immediate tariffs. (General Motors México)

He estimated that around 10-12% of exporters in Mexico, mainly in the automotive sector adjacent industries, will not be able to comply with USMCA rules and will thus face 25% tariffs on their exports to the U.S.

“We have to work with them … [during] the next three weeks,” Ebrard said.

‘What’s going to happen in April?’

Ebrard, referring to the April 2 conclusion of the tariff suspension agreement, posed that question during his remarks to reporters at Sheinbaum’s Friday press conference.

The economy minister noted that the United States intends to impose reciprocal tariffs on its trade partners starting April 2.

He said that Mexico will find out in early April what tariffs the United States will impose on imports from its southern neighbor and “all the countries of the world.”

This month, the Mexican government will “be negotiating and presenting the arguments of Mexico” to avoid the imposition of tariffs on Mexican goods next month, Ebrard said.

A construction worker lays down steel rebar, like that which could be subject to tariffs in Mexico — Whether the US will implement tariffs at the end of April and whether Mexico can avoid steel tariffs on March 12 are open questions. (Ricardo Gómez Ángel/Unsplash)

Sheinbaum emphasized on Thursday that because Mexico doesn’t impose tariffs on imports from the United States, a “reciprocal relationship” with the U.S. would be one in which “they don’t charge us tariffs either.”

In that context, she expressed optimism that tariffs won’t be imposed on Mexican goods when the United States places reciprocal tariffs on imports from other countries next month.

The president, Ebrard and other Mexican officials have repeatedly stressed that tariffs on Mexican goods will have an adverse impact on the United States economy and increase prices for U.S. consumers.

Sheinbaum said Tuesday that Mexico doesn’t want to enter into “an economic or trade confrontation” with the U.S., saying that such a situation is the “opposite” of what the North American region “should be doing.”

The countries of North America, she said, should be “integrating our economies more to strengthen our region in the face of the economic and trade progress of other regions.”

‘We have to reach an agreement on steel and aluminum’

Ebrard noted that the United States still intends to impose 25% tariffs on its steel and aluminum imports, including those from Mexico, on March 12.

The economy minister said he has been asked whether Trump’s suspension of tariffs on imports covered by the USMCA would apply to steel and aluminum. He indicated the answer is no.

“We have to reach an agreement on steel and aluminum,” Ebrard said before reiterating that the United States has a surplus with Mexico on the trade of those metals.

He said that Mexico is in talks with the United States on the issue “because a tariff on [Mexican] aluminum and steel is not justified.”

Ebrard said last month that tariffs on Mexican steel and aluminum are illogical and a “bad idea” due to the United States’ surplus with Mexico on the trade of the metals and the integration of the U.S., Mexican and Canadian economies.

Mexico News Daily

Mercado Libre announces plan to invest US $3.4B in Mexico this year

By

MND Staff

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March 7, 2025

2

A yellow Mercado Libre airplane takes off from a runway — Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard said the continued arrival of investments is a sign of Mexico’s strong economic prospects. (Laredo International Airport/Facebook)

Latin American e-commerce giant Mercado Libre announced it will invest US $3.4 billion in Mexico this year, a 38% increase over investment plans announced last year.

The announcement came during President Claudia Sheinbaum’s Friday press conference a day after U.S. President Donald Trump granted a tariff reprieve to Mexico, following what Sheinbaum described as an “excellent and respectful” phone chat between the two presidents.

The investment will focus on tech products and financial services, a Mercado Libre executive said while standing alongside Sheinbaum. The company plans to hire 10,000 more people this year to work in logistics, financial technology, administration and other areas.

“We have decided to privilege Mexico, which today is our second largest market in the entire region,” David Geisen, Mercado Libre’s country manager for Mexico, said.

With the investment, Mercado Libre will have invested a total of US $35 billion in Mexico in the last five years, Geisen said, adding that with the new hires the company’s total workforce in Mexico will reach 35,000.

Geisen explained that the resources aim to boost the company’s innovation with technology and artificial intelligence. This will include improvements to its e-commerce platform and financial solutions, as well as in the expansion of the company’s logistics capacity.

A white man in a suit stands at a podium in front of a screen reading "3.400 millones de dolares de inversion anual en 2025" as Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum looks on — Mercado Libre’s country manager for Mexico, David Geisen, announced the investment plan at President Sheinbaum’s Friday morning press conference. (Presidencia)

The announcement comes just two months after Mexico imposed a 19% tax on imports via courier services from countries with which it does not have a free-trade agreement. This tax will impact Mercado Libre’s Chinese competitors, such as Temu and Shein.

This week’s investment announcement by Mercado Libre — Mexico’s largest online retailer with a 15.4% market share in 2023 — surpasses by nearly US $1 billion the 2024 investment plans the company had announced in November.

Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard lauded the continued arrival of investments in Mexico in the midst of the uncertainty posed by the latent threat of U.S. tariffs, calling it a sign of Mexico’s good economic prospects, despite Trump’s protectionist offensive.

As if to illustrate this, energy infrastructure company Sempra confirmed at the same press conference that it is developing two new projects in Baja California at a cost of US $3.5 billion.

Sempra president Tania Ortiz said the ongoing projects — an expansion at a liquid gas terminal in Ensenada and a wind farm in Tecate, both of which are expected to be operational in 2026 — have resulted in nearly 19,000 new jobs.

Over the past 28 years, Sempra has invested US $13.6 billion in energy infrastructure in Mexico, Ortiz said.

With reports from El Universal, Mexico Now and Reuters