NL Industry: Inventories Grow, External Demand Worries

Nuevo León's industrial sector presents a nuanced outlook for recovery, according to the latest data from the Chamber of the Manufacturing Industry (CAINTRA). While indicators such as the number of workers and inventories show growth, significant concerns persist due to factors such as weak economic activity and the contraction of external demand.

Nuevo León's manufacturing sector, one of Mexico's most important economic engines, is navigating a complex environment that combines signs of progress with persistent challenges. A recent analysis by the Chamber of the Manufacturing Industry (CAINTRA) on the sector's performance in April 2025 reveals a mixed dynamic, where companies' internal preparation contrasts with external pressures.

According to the CAINTRA survey, some key indicators showed positive results. The number of workers in the industry showed growth, suggesting a possible revival in hiring or stabilization of employment in the sector.

Particularly notable was the performance of inventories, which not only grew but were the only item to reach the expansion threshold. This figure could be interpreted as a strategy by companies to prepare for a possible surge in demand, building up stocks to respond quickly to future orders.

Despite these encouraging signs, the CAINTRA report emphasizes that Nuevo León's industry continues to face considerable obstacles. Weak economic activity was identified by 32% of the companies surveyed as one of their main concerns in April. Although this proportion shows a downward trend compared to previous months, it continues to be the factor most frequently cited by 42.5% of companies as their main concern.

The adverse international environment (mentioned by 33.6% of companies) and, more specifically, weaker external demand (reported by 31%) are factors that continue to affect local industries, especially those with a strong export focus. This dynamic reflects a mixed picture in international markets, where recovery is uneven and certain sectors or regions are still experiencing contractions.

"In particular, inventories were the only item that reached the expansion threshold, which could indicate greater preparedness among companies for a surge in demand." – CAINTRA analysis.

Regarding prices, both manufactured goods and raw materials remained in the expansion zone during April, with 53 and 58 points respectively on the CAINTRA index (where more than 50 points indicates expansion). However, both indicators registered a decrease compared to March, which could be linked to a stabilization in costs or less inflationary pressure in these specific areas.

CAINTRA continues to play an active role in promoting industrial activity and supporting businesses in the region. Among its upcoming events is the Expo Manufactura 2025 Business Meeting, designed as a key meeting point for companies in the sector that will showcase the latest technologies and solutions to transform the manufacturing landscape.

In addition, the chamber maintains a consistent agenda of training and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with seminars and workshops on crucial topics such as electronic invoicing, technological platforms, and COFEPRIS regulatory compliance.

The future performance of Nuevo León's industry will depend largely on the evolution of the global economy, the strength of the domestic market, and the ability of companies to adapt to a constantly changing environment, taking advantage of opportunities such as nearshoring and technological innovation.