As part of Plan México, President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo announced the publication of a decree in the Official Gazette of the Federation to promote the installation of international pharmaceutical companies in Mexico. The goal is for medications and medical supplies to begin being produced domestically starting in 2026, boosting employment, innovation, and health sovereignty.
During her morning press conference, Sheinbaum explained that the government aims to leverage the more than 300 billion pesos it spends every two years on medicine procurement. This investment will serve as a driver to attract companies from India, the United States, Europe, and Latin America to build plants in Mexico, lowering costs and promoting research into diseases such as dengue.
The decree stipulates that pharmaceutical companies wishing to participate in public tenders from 2026 onward must have a physical presence in Mexico—such as laboratories, factories, or warehouses. These companies will receive higher scores in public procurement processes if they demonstrate investment within the country. The Well-being Economic Development Hubs (PODECOBI) and the public company Birmex are expected to serve as the main anchors for this productive model.
Health Secretary David Kershenobich Stalnikowitz stated that the plan includes the creation of bio-incubators to boost innovation and intellectual property, as well as the development of talent and medical technology. Deputy Secretary of Health Integration and Development Eduardo Clark García Dobarganes added that even patented drugs will be subject to investment commitments, as part of a new strategy for productive localization.
Cofepris Commissioner Armida Zúñiga Estrada announced that Mexico is working toward full digitalization of all health-related administrative procedures, which is already 60% complete. She also highlighted the modernization of the DIGIPRiS system, faster clinical research approvals, and a strategic partnership with the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI) to streamline the registration of patents and medicines. These actions, she said, aim to create an efficient, transparent, and globally competitive regulatory environment.
