Business

How Mexico's Agricultural Sector Is Thriving Against the Odds

Mexico's agricultural sector has shown resilience, with grain and oilseed production surpassing previous records despite drought and global challenges. Favorable weather, increased yields, and government support have contributed to this success.

Mexicanist

Oct 11, 2024 — 3 min read

From drought to bounty, Mexico's farmers have proven their resilience. 🌽🌾🌱

As the world grapples with climate change, geopolitical tensions, and shifting economic landscapes, the agricultural sector remains a critical pillar of stability and growth. In Mexico, the 2024 agricultural year presents a positive forecast for total grain and oilseed production, showcasing resilience amid challenges.

The Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development, Víctor Villalobos Arámbula, recently announced that total production for essential crops—corn, beans, wheat, rice, sorghum, and soybeans—is estimated to rise by 2.0 percent compared to 2018. This increase reflects a transition from 36 million 450 thousand tons to 37 million 200 thousand tons.

A humorous depiction of a bureaucrat holding a clipboard and checking off items.

How the Spanish Crown Controlled Death (and Expenses) in New Spain

2.0 Flash Experimental. Might not work as expected. In 17th-century New Spain, even death was regulated by the Spanish Crown. A 1696 Royal Decree dictated funeral ceremonies, mourning attire, and coffin design, particularly for the nobility, to control expenses and ensure solemnity.

Illustration of shrimp shells entering a glowing bioreactor, with cartoon lactic bacteria high-fiving.

Mexican Scientists Find Value in Shrimp Shells for Medical and Industrial Uses

Mexican researchers use lactic acid bacteria to extract chitosan, a valuable biopolymer, from shrimp shell waste. This eco-friendly method transforms a pollutant into a resource for medicine, agriculture, and even 3D-printed tissues.

A stylized graphic of a vintage limited-edition car with a Mexican flag.

Mexico Faces Accelerated Aging, Posing Fiscal and Healthcare Challenges

Mexico's rapidly aging population poses healthcare and fiscal challenges. Declining mortality and fertility rates are driving this demographic shift, necessitating policy adjustments and increased investment in areas like home healthcare, preventative medicine, and long-term care insurance.

Monarch butterflies clustered on a tree branch, representing the natural collective action seen in nature.

How Indigenous Villages Outsmart CEOs, Bureaucrats, and That Dude Who Never Brings Beer to the BBQ

In Mexico's poorest areas, collective action, where communities participate in solving public problems, is crucial for effective policy. Scholar David Morales González emphasizes communication, prior evaluation, and even AI, citing successful indigenous community management.

Read more

How the Spanish Crown Controlled Death (and Expenses) in New Spain

Mexican Scientists Find Value in Shrimp Shells for Medical and Industrial Uses

Mexico Faces Accelerated Aging, Posing Fiscal and Healthcare Challenges

How Indigenous Villages Outsmart CEOs, Bureaucrats, and That Dude Who Never Brings Beer to the BBQ