Eliel Campuzano Mendiola, Consul General, Consulate General of Mexico in Miami

June 2026 — Invest: sat down with Eliel Campuzano Mendiola of the Consulate General of Mexico in Miami to discuss how Mexico is strengthening trade, investment, and institutional ties with South Florida. He shared how Miami’s role as a global gateway is reshaping cross-border opportunities across logistics, tourism, technology, and infrastructure. “We work hard in order to make their business dreams come true,” Campuzano said.

Over the past year, what were the consulate’s most meaningful milestones, particularly related to economic advancement and investment in Miami?

Miami has become increasingly important for Mexico, and that is why our country decided to establish an office here years ago. The work we do is different from many other consulates across the United States because Miami brings together business, entertainment, culture, and global visibility in a unique way. It is one of the cities that attracts attention from people all over the world, and Mexico recognized that strategic importance.

A core part of our role is to promote economic opportunities. That includes investment, trade, tourism, cultural initiatives, and sports, all of which help strengthen the connection between Mexico and Florida, and Miami in particular. The activities we carried out over the past year supported the objectives established by our government for this region, and they also reflect broader global changes that are influencing how countries engage economically.

Technology has been a central topic in many of our conversations. Artificial intelligence and advanced technologies are reshaping how countries think about competitiveness and growth. In the past, discussions focused more heavily on raw materials and how to access them. Those remain important, but today technology plays an equally critical role in trade, investment, and long-term economic positioning.

The foundation of the Mexico–U.S. relationship also remains strong. Mexico is the number one trade partner of the United States, and that relationship has grown within the framework of the USMCA agreement including Canada. We are seeing the outcomes of that agreement more clearly now, particularly as the economic relationship between Mexico and Florida becomes more active and more complex.

We have participated in trade fairs and industry events related to travel, food and beverage, and other sectors where entrepreneurs and business leaders are seeking new opportunities. We also see growth reflected in connectivity. The increase in flights between Florida and Mexico and the increasing number of information requests from Mexican business leaders interested in establishing operations here show how closely integrated our markets are becoming. Our role is to help connect communities and support successful outcomes on both sides.

From your perspective, what makes Miami such a strategic and dynamic environment for entrepreneurs and companies entering the South Florida market?

Miami’s location is fundamental. When people describe Miami as the gateway to the Americas, that description is accurate. The city brings together a wide diversity of cultures, and there are many opportunities for interaction through events organized by both the public and private sectors. That environment creates momentum and makes it easier for people to connect, exchange ideas, and explore partnerships.

Connectivity is another major advantage. Miami International Airport links destinations across the Caribbean, Latin America, North America, and beyond. That level of access supports both tourism and business activity and allows Miami to function as a hub for companies operating across regions.

Quality of life also plays a role. The climate supports year-round activity, and the city offers access to nature, cultural events, and major international entertainment. Miami’s global profile continues to develop, which adds to its appeal for people deciding where to invest, establish operations, or relocate.

Equally important is the relationship between local authorities and the international community. There is consistent dialogue between mayors, counties, commissioners, and consulates. Local leaders are open to engaging with international partners, creating spaces to promote culture, business, and collaboration. For us, that openness is essential.

The presence of dozens of consulates in Miami is another indicator of the city’s importance. It reflects how connected Miami is to the world and why Mexico considers it such a strategic location.

Looking ahead, major global events will further elevate Miami’s profile. The upcoming World Cup, with multiple matches hosted in the city, will bring international attention and visitors from around the world. In addition, global economic discussions connected to the G20 agenda are expected to take place here, and Mexico plans to participate actively. These events reinforce Miami’s role as a global city.

How is the consulate working with partners like SelectFlorida, local chambers, and other organizations to help Mexican companies enter the South Florida market and succeed?

We work closely with SelectFlorida, which has an office in Mexico, making coordination much easier. We also collaborate with ports and logistics partners to support trade and investment between Mexico and Florida.

One major focus has been the development of sea routes to strengthen trade across the Gulf. Ports in Florida are doing important work to promote their infrastructure and capabilities, and these routes can provide alternatives to land transportation, which can be overcrowded at times. Sea routes can improve efficiency and help connect Florida, Mexico, the East Coast, and the Caribbean more effectively.

Beyond Miami, we also engage with other ports and regions across Florida to understand how we can support exporters, importers, and logistics companies. These conversations are ongoing and increasingly important as trade volumes grow.

Our work with chambers of commerce is equally practical. We collaborate with the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce, women’s business organizations, regional chambers, and Mexican American chambers that bring together U.S. and Mexican businesses. When a company approaches us seeking to place a product in Florida, and there is interest on the other side, we try to facilitate that connection.

Sometimes we already have the data or contacts needed. Other times, we work with chambers to identify the right partner. We do not like to leave people without options. We work hard in order to make their business dreams come true. That is why strong relationships with chambers and local partners are essential.

We also work with authorities at different levels of government to help businesses understand local rules, permitting processes, and regulatory requirements. Bureaucracy can be challenging, particularly for companies entering a new market, and our role is often to help connect them with the right offices and resources.

Looking ahead two to three years, what are your top priorities to deepen economic collaboration and investment between Mexico and Florida?

The global environment is changing, and trade and investment face new challenges. Countries are reassessing how they approach open markets, while geopolitical competition continues to influence economic policy.

Mexico remains committed to global trade and the free market. There is significant attention on the upcoming review of the USMCA agreement, and while adjustments may occur, we expect the treaty to continue. One of our priorities will be to inform businesses and stakeholders about any changes that emerge from that process.

Another challenge is the potential expansion of tariffs globally. In response, we are exploring creative solutions, including opportunities within Miami’s ports and free zones that can help companies remain competitive and manage risk.

Technology is also a top priority. Miami is emerging as a technology hub, and we want to understand what is happening here so we can share those insights with Mexico. Areas such as artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are advancing quickly, and staying connected to those developments is essential.

We are also attentive in promoting Mexico’s major infrastructure projects, including initiatives in the Gulf region that support connectivity and trade. Because Florida is part of this broader economic neighborhood, we believe these projects can further strengthen integration between both sides.

Our overarching goal remains the same: to promote investment and trade, share timely information, and connect the right people so collaboration can continue to grow. Integration between Mexico and Florida is deepening, and we intend to remain actively involved in shaping that future.