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

In an interview with Invest:, Eliel Campuzano, Acting Consul General of the Consulate General of Mexico in Miami, discussed the consulate’s role in fostering bilateral growth, supporting Mexican businesses, and promoting sustainability to align with Miami’s dynamic development and global trends.

What are some recent achievements for the Consulate General of Mexico in Miami?

A significant achievement has been our involvement in trade delegations, which have strengthened investments and business opportunities between Miami and Mexican cities, particularly in sectors like technology, hospitality, and rail. These initiatives are creating jobs and fostering innovation on both sides, further solidifying Miami’s reputation as an international hub. Mexico is the 13th-largest foreign direct investor in Florida, with Mexican-owned affiliates accounting for more than 5,000 jobs in the state. Additionally, cultural events hosted by the consulate have built connections that go beyond commerce, enhancing the integration of the Mexican community into Miami’s social and economic fabric.

What have been the most significant factors driving Miami’s growth over the past decade, and what role do Mexican businesses and citizens play in this?

Miami’s appeal as a gateway to Latin America, its favorable tax policies, real estate development, and multicultural environment have been key growth drivers. These factors have attracted talent and investments, including significant contributions from Mexico. Over the past decade Mexican businesses have invested millions of dollars in sectors such as railways and real estate. Miami is also becoming increasingly attractive to affluent Mexicans investing in residential real estate, often as a second place to live. According to the Miami-based International Realty Group, which recently opened an office in Mexico City, homebuyers from Mexico pay the highest prices among Latin Americans. Mexican real estate investments in the U.S. now total $482 million, underscoring our contribution to the region’s economic vitality. The consulate plays a pivotal role in facilitating these transitions, connecting Mexican businesses with Miami’s resources and infrastructure, and making it easier for them to establish operations here.

How is the consulate aligning with Miami’s dynamic growth and trends?

The consulate is actively navigating key trends such as the rapid digitalization of services with an emphasis on sustainability, and a focus on inclusive economic growth. We are prioritizing support for Mexican businesses and fostering entrepreneurship, particularly among women, to ensure opportunities are accessible across the community. By focusing on these initiatives, we are aligning with Miami’s drive toward innovation while ensuring inclusiveness and sustainability. Miami is on the cusp of becoming a global leader in technology and finance. However, this comes with challenges, such as the need for affordable housing, addressing climate change and modernizing infrastructure to meet the demands of expected population growth. Mexican investments in housing projects would be a great opportunity to contribute to solutions for maintaining affordability. Additionally, our consulate is prepared to assist with Miami’s resilience efforts, particularly in securing partnerships and funding to address hurricanes and environmental sustainability.

What partnerships would you highlight as successful and why?

A successful partnership has been our work with local chambers and businesses to support Mexican companies in Miami, which contribute significantly to the local economy. This collaboration facilitates networking, business development, and access to capital, creating a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurs. One crucial area is accelerating trade by sea. Higher costs and longer transit times for land routes crossing the U.S.-Mexico border, combined with the proximity of Mexico’s Gulf Coast, have made Florida ports an attractive option. In June 2020, the Florida-Mexico Working Group on Maritime Trade was established as a collaboration between the Consulate of Mexico and the World Trade Center Miami. This initiative encourages the use of maritime routes and addresses logistical challenges. As Miami faces future issues like housing and sustainability, we aim to expand these collaborations to include environmental and infrastructure projects. These efforts will benefit not only the Mexican-American community but also Miami as a whole, ensuring accessible and affordable solutions.

What does the new presidential administration in both countries mean for U.S.-Mexico relations, both diplomatically and economically?

The long-standing relationship between Mexico and the United States transcends individual administrations. The links between our countries are deeply rooted in society and extend beyond government policies reported in the media. Mexico is the main trading partner for the United States, and this dynamic will not change. Trade trends are continuously increasing, reflecting the complete integration of our economies. In the coming years, this alliance will strengthen, not only in trade but also in other areas of international affairs. This partnership is essential for the integration and development of the entire Western Hemisphere.

How does your organization contribute to fostering connections and collaboration between your community and the opportunities available in Miami?

This consulate is unique due to Miami’s multicultural environment and dynamic economy, which encompasses business, trade, and even agriculture in South Florida. My vision for this consulate is to operate holistically, addressing the diverse areas we encounter in our daily work. Miami’s unique position as a gateway to Latin America allows the Mexican consulate to play an active role in fostering bilateral growth and cultural exchange. Our mission is to serve as a resource for Mexican nationals, helping them navigate life here while contributing to the local community. As Miami continues its rapid growth, we are proud to serve as a bridge between the people and businesses of Mexico and the opportunities Miami offers. Our commitment to Miami’s future is unwavering, and we look forward to deepening collaboration with local leaders, businesses, and residents in the years to come.