Rio South Texas Presents U.S. Expansion Opportunities to Index Nacional Leaders

As part of the Index Nacional delegation’s tour of the Rio South Texas Region organized by COSTEP, Consejo para el Progreso Económico del Sur de Texas, a panel titled “Expansion Opportunities in the United States” brought together key economic development officials to present the region’s industrial growth and competitive advantages for international companies.

The session featured Ramiro Alemán, Director of Economic Development for Cameron County; Orlando Campos, CEO of Harlingen Economic Development Corporation; and Gilberto Salinas, CEO of Greater Brownsville Economic Development Corporation. The discussion was moderated by Rick Carrera, Director of Economic Development at COSTEP.

Addressing Index Nacional President Humberto Martínez, Director General Jael Durán, and presidents and directors of various regional Index councils, the panelists presented strategic insights into the economic momentum of South Texas and the favorable conditions for establishing new investments in the United States.

Connectivity, Talent, and Incentive Frameworks

Gilberto Salinas highlighted the transformative impact of major projects such as SpaceX on the Brownsville area, noting that high-impact investments have accelerated infrastructure development, attracted specialized talent, and triggered a new wave of private investment in aerospace and technology sectors.

Ramiro Alemán emphasized Cameron County’s competitive advantages, including its strategic border location, strong logistics connectivity, availability of land for industrial development, and incentive programs designed to facilitate market entry for companies seeking to establish operations in the U.S.

Orlando Campos explained that Harlingen’s strategy centers on tailored support for incoming companies. From the initial contact, local authorities conduct detailed assessments of each firm’s operational needs and growth projections to deliver customized programs and incentives that maximize long-term success.

Strengthening Binational Industrial Dialogue

The panel reinforced binational dialogue between Mexico’s manufacturing sector and South Texas economic development agencies, positioning the region as a strategic destination for companies seeking to expand into the U.S. while maintaining close operational ties to Mexico.

With its proximity to major manufacturing hubs across the border and a rapidly expanding industrial ecosystem, Rio South Texas continues to emerge as a key platform for cross-border operations, supply chain integration, and nearshoring-driven investment.