Ironically, one of the biggest challenges facing the food industry is its own waste. Turning this waste into biodegradable plastics helps reduce its environmental footprint. The success of Mexican scientists who patented an orange peel-based bioplastic in 2025 is proof of this. This example reminds us that innovation isn’t just about creating something new, but about transforming knowledge into solutions that bring real benefits to society.
In value chains, innovation is essential for improving the quality and profitability of productive sectors. Digitalization makes it possible to optimize processes, ensure traceability, and base decisions on accurate data. However, Mexico’s technological transition faces critical challenges, such as a shortage of specialized talent and the need to adapt to regulatory frameworks that demand greater environmental and social responsibility.
In this context, modernizing digital infrastructure is essential to ensure next-generation networks, greater connectivity, and data centers with a reliable power supply. Under the principles of Industry 4.0, Mexican companies must evolve and transition from being assembly centers to integrators of digital ecosystems. Companies such as Siemens in Mexico are already adopting technologies like Digital Twins and the Internet of Things to ensure real-time operational efficiency.
Among the strategic sectors driving innovation are agribusiness—focused on precision agriculture and advanced irrigation technologies—and the healthcare sector, centered on medical devices and diagnostics. In the financial sector, the country is establishing itself as a fintech hub through the use of artificial intelligence, while in manufacturing, autonomous robotics and predictive maintenance are leading the way.
Strengthening these sectors will have a positive impact by optimizing resources, increasing profitability, promoting technological independence, fostering financial inclusion, and improving operational efficiency. One example is the National Irrigation Modernization Program, which aims to modernize 200,000 hectares by 2026.
According to WIPO’s Global Innovation Index 2025, Mexico is the third-most innovative country in Latin America. It stands out for its efficiency in generating results that exceed its level of investment, which demonstrates the resilience of its national talent despite a fragmented environment. However, the lack of specialized talent remains the main challenge.
The importance of technological innovation in Mexico lies in its ability to redefine the production model. This transformation requires synergy among the government, the private sector, and educational institutions. The government must ensure technological sovereignty and increase funding for science, technology, and innovation; the private sector must invest in digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity; and educational institutions must strengthen talent development and act as strategic partners.
Mexico’s future by 2030 depends on strengthening its innovation ecosystem. With the review of the USMCA, the country has the opportunity to move beyond its role as a trading partner and position itself as a powerhouse in technological co-production. Achieving this requires moving beyond the assembly model and creating a network of suppliers and services integrated into regional value chains.
Given this situation, what strategies have you considered to encourage innovation in your field?
Researcher's data:
Dr. Hiram Eredín Ponce Espinosa
Director of the Center for Innovation and Technological Development, Universidad Panamericana.
President of the Mexican Society for Artificial Intelligence
Text taken from: https://www.eluniversal.com.mx/opinion/hiram-ponce/por-que-innovar-ya-no-es-opcional-para-las-empresas-mexicanas/
