The Mexican Economy

Mexico is the sixteenth largest economy in the world and Latin America's biggest exporter and importer. However, there are two Mexicos: one more prosperous, advanced, and modern, and the other poor, isolated, and disadvantaged. Enrique Cárdenas provides an overview of Mexicos recent economic history and examines its attempts to address regional disparities, low productivity, and an export-fuelled economy. The book investigates the relative robustness of macroeconomic fundamentals and industry-level economic trends, particularly those sectors dependent on free trade agreements. Demographic trends, such as migration to the north, urbanization, poor labor relations, organized crime, and entrenched corruption, have impacted Mexico's economic path. The book offers an up-to-date analysis of Mexicos economic development, social reform programs, and political economy suitable for courses in Latin American studies and development studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 20 October 2022
Publisher: Agenda Publishing

Mexico boasts the impressive distinction of being the sixteenth largest economy globally, and it holds a prominent position as the largest exporter and importer within Latin America. Despite the country's relative macroeconomic stability, a stark divide exists between two distinct Mexicos: one characterized by prosperity, advanced infrastructure, and modernity, while the other struggles with poverty, isolation, and disadvantages. This polarization has played a significant role in shaping Mexico's recent economic development.

Enrique Cárdenas offers a concise yet comprehensive overview of Mexico's recent economic history, delving into its efforts to address the multifaceted challenges posed by regional disparities, low productivity, and an economy heavily reliant on exports, particularly to its largest neighbor. The book explores the resilience of the macroeconomic fundamentals alongside specific industry-level economic trends, particularly those sectors impacted by free trade agreements. It sheds light on demographic trends, such as migration to the north, urbanization, poor labor relations, organized crime, and entrenched corruption, which have exerted a profound influence on Mexico's economic trajectory.

This book serves as an invaluable resource for students and scholars interested in Latin American studies and development studies. It provides an up-to-date analysis of Mexico's economic development, social reform initiatives, and political economy, offering insights into the complex dynamics that shape this vibrant nation. By examining the interplay between economic factors, social policies, and political decisions, the book fosters a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Mexico and its neighboring regions.

In conclusion, Mexico's economic prowess and its role as a major player in Latin America are undeniable. However, the country's economic development has been characterized by a persistent divide between prosperous and disadvantaged regions, reflecting broader social and political challenges. Enrique Cárdenas' book provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of Mexico's economic history and its efforts to address these disparities, offering insights that are relevant to scholars and policymakers alike.

Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788212663