Summary: Aguascalientes is deepening economic cooperation with Japan as it seeks to sustain strong foreign investment growth, following US$342.1 million in FDI during 1Q26 and plans to attract more than US$600 million in new projects. Japanese investment remains critical to the state’s automotive and manufacturing ecosystem, while expanding collaboration in technology, innovation, and semiconductors supports Mexico’s broader nearshoring and industrial development strategy. Key stakeholders include Japanese companies, advanced manufacturing industries, technology firms, and regional supply chain operators.
Aguascalientes is strengthening its economic relationship with Japan as the state seeks to capitalize on growing foreign investment momentum that has already delivered 78 investment announcements and US$342.1 million in foreign direct investment (FDI) during the 1Q26.
During a working meeting, Aguascalientes Minister of Economic Development, Science and Technology Esaú Garza met with Takero Aoyama, Consul General of Japan in Leon, to discuss opportunities to expand bilateral cooperation and attract new investment projects. The talks come as the state aims to secure 30 additional investment projects worth more than US$600 million that are expected to generate approximately 8,000 formal jobs in 2026.
State officials said the meeting reaffirmed Japan’s confidence in Aguascalientes and highlighted the importance of the Asian nation’s presence in the state’s industrial development strategy.
Japanese Investment Supports Strategic Industries
Against the backdrop of rising investment activity, officials reviewed the contribution Japanese companies continue to make across key productive sectors in Aguascalientes and explored new opportunities to deepen economic cooperation.
Garza described Japan as a strategic partner for the state, noting that the confidence shown by Japanese companies has played an important role in strengthening economic activities that generate value and competitiveness.
The discussions focused on opportunities to continue promoting investment, technological development, innovation, and the creation of high-quality jobs, all of which form part of the state’s broader economic growth agenda.
Japan has long been one of the most influential foreign investors in Aguascalientes, particularly through its participation in the automotive manufacturing industry and related supply chains, helping position the state as a key manufacturing hub in Mexico.
Manufacturing Drives Investment Growth
The renewed engagement with Japanese representatives comes as Aguascalientes records strong investment indicators and seeks to further consolidate its position within regional and global supply chains.
According to the Ministry of Economic Development, Science and Technology (SEDECYT), the state attracted US$342.1 million in FDI during 1Q26, representing a 211.4% increase compared to the same period last year.
Manufacturing accounted for US$271.8 million of total FDI, nearly 80% of investment received during the quarter. The sector posted a 127% year-over-year increase, reflecting continued demand for advanced manufacturing capabilities and the expansion of global companies operating in North America, reported MBN.
The state government attributes its investment performance to legal certainty, public security, competitive infrastructure, industrial innovation and a specialized workforce, factors that continue to attract domestic and international companies.
Investment announcements secured during the current administration span strategic industries including automotive manufacturing, information technology, semiconductors, electronics, energy, metalworking, food production, logistics, industrial parks, and real estate development.
Technology and Innovation Remain Priorities
Building on its manufacturing base, Aguascalientes is also seeking to expand collaboration with Japan in technology and innovation, areas officials identified as increasingly important for industrial development and investment attraction.
Garza reiterated the state government’s commitment to maintaining close coordination with Japanese representatives and fostering conditions that support new business and investment opportunities.
The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their interest in advancing a collaborative agenda focused on investment, innovation, and economic development, reinforcing Japan’s role as a key partner in Aguascalientes’ long-term growth strategy.