Cross-Border Connectivity Drives McAllen’s Economic Growth

Thanks to its connectivity with Mexico and strategic decisions by local business leaders, the city of McAllen achieved record-breaking economic and industrial growth in 2024. According to Elizabeth Suárez, CEO of the McAllen Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, these two factors are even more crucial than the decisions made in Washington or Mexico City.

In 2024, McAllen experienced a 2% increase in Gross Domestic Product (GDP), $96 million generated through the retail sector, a 13% rise in imports entering the United States through the Rio Grande Valley (RGV), and a 20% growth in airport passenger traffic over the past two years.

While policies implemented by the U.S. and Mexican governments can impact the region’s economic and industrial development, the most important factors are local business decisions and the support provided by business organizations.

"Sometimes, the decisions made in Washington and Mexico City are not as significant as those made by each company at the local level. Nonetheless, we remain vigilant to ensure we have a voice at the table because we know that business leaders play a crucial role in this economic and industrial growth," Suárez stated.

For Suárez, connectivity with Mexico is essential to this development. In the past year alone, 4.8 million vehicles and 9.8 million passengers crossed from Mexico into McAllen.

"This growth highlights the strength of our network and connectivity with Mexico. When we see the expansion of international bridges in terms of trade and passenger traffic, we recognize that Mexico remains a strong ally," Suárez explained.

Meanwhile, the MEDC and the McAllen Chamber of Commerce are preparing a list of 20 legislative priorities to present to representatives in Austin. They also plan to bring this legislative agenda to the federal level in April.

McAllen is home to six industrial parks:

• Sharyland Industrial Park
• McAllen Southwest Industrial Area
• McAllen South Industrial Park
• Botelo Industrial Park
• McAllen Nearshoring Campus
• Tres Puentes Industrial Park

The McAllen Economic Development Corporation is a nonprofit organization founded in 1988 to drive job growth by attracting new industries and supporting the expansion of existing businesses. For more information about MEDC’s services, contact (956) 682-2875 or email info@mcallenedc.org.