Mexico – An Automotive Powerhouse

As one of the largest producers and exporters of vehicles globally, Mexico stands as a benchmark and key trading partner in the automotive sector. Its quality, proximity, and reliability position it well to become a preferred supplier for Caribbean markets. Mexico ranks as the seventh largest producer and third largest exporter of vehicles worldwide and holds the number one spot in both categories across Latin America and the Caribbean. Its strategic geographical location further establishes it as a dependable hub for global automotive production.

Global Brands, Local Production Strength

The Mexican automotive industry is made up of 21 light vehicle assembly plants, distributed throughout the national territory, which are operated by the most prestigious international companies such as General Motors, Ford, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Mazda, Volkswagen, Audi, Toyota, Nissan, Honda, KIA and Stellantis, among others.

The Mexican Association of the Automotive Industry indicates, in its most recent report, that these factories produce four million vehicles per year, 90% of which are destined for export. The most produced and sold models include the Nissan Sentra and Versa, the Toyota Hilux and Corolla, and the Jeep and RAM (part of Stellantis). Also noteworthy are recent-generation electrified models such as the BMW 3 Series Hybrid and the Audi Q5, as well as heavy segment units, such as the Freightliner Cascadia tractor-trailer and Mercedes-Benz Marcopolo buses.

Due to its geographical proximity, the USA market accounts for around 80% of the vehicles exported. In comparison, the remaining 20% is distributed among numerous consumer markets in Europe, Asia, South America and the Caribbean. Other key customers for Mexican vehicles include the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, South Africa and the Caribbean, with right-hand-drive cars being very popular in these markets.

Revving Up Regional Trade

In 2024, Trinidad and Tobago imported approximately US$1.7 million in passenger cars from Mexico. Five years earlier, it had imported half a million US dollars, illustrating not only an upward trend but also an opportunity to leverage the geographical proximity and competitive prices that Mexico offers, benefiting Trinbagonian consumers and local companies. Mexican exporters are known for their hospitality and efficiency, which facilitates trade transactions.

The industrial strength and international prestige of the brands assembled in Mexico offer Trinidad and Tobago, compared to other vendors, a strategic opportunity to diversify its automotive suppliers. Committing to Mexican vehicles not only grants access to high-quality models with global backing, but also to exploring new possibilities for competitive pricing, right-hand-drive customised models and a closer commercial relationship with Latin America.

Importing these vehicles from Mexico can reduce the final consumer price locally by more than 7%. These savings can be even greater for cargo vehicles or pickups, representing a measurable opportunity for local distributors and institutional buyers interested in optimising costs through closer and more efficient trade ties to Mexico. The road to a new era of mobility in Trinidad and Tobago begins with Mexico.

Embassy of The United Mexican States in Trinidad and Tobago
12 Hayes Street, St. Clair, Port of Spain, Trinidad
T: (868) 622-1422 | F: (868) 628-8488
E: [email protected]