Texas: A Strategic Destination for Foreign Investment

South Texas is a strategic destination for Mexican and international companies seeking to expand into the U.S. market. This was a key takeaway from the 2025 SelectUSA Mexico Conference, held at the Hilton Reforma Hotel in Mexico City, where Adam González, CEO of COSTEP, and James Taylor, founder of Vianovo, shared their insights.

Adam González emphasized that South Texas, spanning from Laredo to Brownsville, has evolved from a traditional manufacturing hub into a key region for industries such as medical devices, biomedicine, personal protective products, automotive, and advanced manufacturing, among others.

“We are building a robust ecosystem with high-quality hospitals, specialized education programs, and a young, skilled workforce. These factors support the growth of strategic industries,” he stated.

He highlighted the critical role of education in this transformation. Universities have invested over $700 million in infrastructure and programs focused on biotechnology, nursing, and medicine, with significant progress in public health.

“We are creating an accessible and efficient healthcare model that meets local needs,” he added.

Texas: A Strong and Diversified Economy

Texas has successfully diversified its economy beyond oil, emerging as a leader in innovation and technology, according to James Taylor.

Between 2018 and 2023, the state developed more than 5,000 biotechnology-related patents, ranking third in the industry, behind only North Carolina and California.

“The state invests $4 billion annually in research through universities and private companies. This collaborative approach has been key to attracting global investment. Texas boasts a $2.6 trillion economy, larger than Russia’s, underscoring its potential as a driver of growth and employment,” Taylor stated.

A notable example is Grupo Pisa, a Mexican pharmaceutical company that recently announced a historic investment for its expansion into Texas.

Taylor explained that his role, along with the Texas Governor’s Office, is to facilitate companies’ entry into the state by providing information and connecting them with communities that best suit their needs.

Welcoming Companies to the U.S. Market

COSTEP serves as a bridge between Mexican businesses and opportunities in the United States.

“This isn’t about entering blindly but doing so with a strategic plan. We help companies connect with attorneys, universities, and government agencies to ensure their success in Texas,” said Adam González.

Texas’ geographic proximity and infrastructure present significant advantages for Mexican companies, Taylor added.

“Expanding into the U.S. market can be intimidating, but Texas offers proximity, support, and an economy that continues to grow. Soon, it will become the world’s seventh-largest economy.”

Recognized as the premier forum for promoting foreign investment in the United States, SelectUSA reinforced the attractiveness of South Texas, which blends innovation, collaboration, and geographic proximity—solidifying its position as a strategic destination for businesses seeking growth in a competitive market.