Mexicali is not merely the capital of Baja California; over the years, it has established itself as one of the state’s key pillars by serving as the seat of political power, driving industrial growth, and occupying a strategic position along the U.S. border.
Its development in sectors such as advanced manufacturing—along with its integration into global export supply chains—positions it as a pivotal hub for the state’s overall growth, a fact clearly reflected in the statistics.
According to data from the Secretariat of Economy, in 2024, Mexicali’s exports reached a total value of $13.919 billion. Of that total, integrated electronic circuits accounted for more than $1.652 billion, ranking among the city’s top export products.
Industrial innovation is an intrinsic part of the city’s identity, home to over 40 companies in the electronics sector and more than 20 in the automotive industry. Operating within this environment are companies such as Kenworth and Skyworks, which exemplify the diversity of local production—ranging from heavy industry to advanced technology—both of which are strongly oriented toward the international market.
The former—the Kenworth plant—specializes in the manufacturing of semi-trucks and is considered an anchor of the sector, standing as one of the most significant facilities of its kind in Mexico and the only one within the state. The plant operates under the U.S. corporation PACCAR, a relationship that underscores the close economic ties with the United States and solidifies Mexicali’s status as a strategic industrial node along the northern border.
During a tour of the facility, company executives explained to this newspaper that there are ten Kenworth plants operating globally; of these, the Mexicali plant—founded in 1959—is the only one that produces three distinct brands: Kenworth, Peterbilt, and DAF.
Kenworth generates over 2,200 jobs and maintains a monthly production output of 38 units. (Screenshot)
René Suarez, the plant’s director, highlighted that the facility has received consecutive global recognition for its safety and quality standards. It currently generates over 2,200 jobs and maintains a monthly production output of 38 units—vehicles designed with a service life that can exceed 45 years. While Kenworth positions the city as a benchmark in the production of heavy-duty trucks for export, Skyworks integrates Mexicali into the global supply chain for high-tech semiconductors used in wireless communications.
Luis Solís, Director of Human Resources, explained to Crónica that since the 1960s, the Mexicali plant has played a crucial role in the company’s global production operations, serving as the only facility in Latin America—one of just three worldwide.
In this city alone, the company generates over 5,300 jobs—and is led 100% by Mexicans—while manufacturing 10 million components daily. These components are utilized in connectivity and communications applications, including the aerospace sector, everyday consumer electronics (smartphones, tablets, video game consoles), the automotive industry, industrial electronics, and more.
This manufacturing ecosystem not only generates thousands of jobs but also reinforces the role of Baja California’s capital city within the broader context of nearshoring and the relocation of industries to the northern border region.
Executives from both plants highlighted their close collaboration with the Baja California state government, particularly regarding investment, technological innovation, and regional economic development.
In this context, the administration of Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila has spearheaded initiatives in infrastructure, investment, and urban development that have had a direct impact on Mexicali. Notable among these are mobility projects, as well as initiatives related to potable water, sanitation, and electrification, representing a total investment exceeding 11 billion pesos.
Complementing these efforts is the active promotion of foreign investment in key sectors—such as semiconductors and advanced manufacturing—along with housing programs and social support initiatives designed to support the continued growth of Baja California’s capital city.
Source: cronnica
