Employment declines at IMMEX: staff down 0.1%, but wages rise

In Mexico, the history of the maquiladora industry has always been a reflection of the ups and downs of international trade. In July 2025, a new chapter was written when the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI) revealed mixed figures on establishments with IMMEX programs, which encompass the manufacturing, maquiladora, and export services industries.

While IMMEX's workforce fell 0.1% compared to June, marking its seventh consecutive decline, other key indicators such as hours worked and wages made progress, showing that the sector has not completely lost its dynamism.

According to INEGI (National Institute of Statistics and Geography), in July 2025, 3,196,146 people were employed in IMMEX establishments, down from 3.2 million the previous month. Compared to the previous year, the decline was 2.9%.

The hardest hit came from the manufacturing sector, with declines of 0.2% monthly and 3.6% annually. Even subcontracted employment showed an alarming 22.2% annual drop. In contrast, non-manufacturing establishments linked to agriculture, fishing, commerce, and services managed to grow 0.2% in the month and 2.8% in the year.

This contrast reflects how Mexico's export industry is facing a labor adjustment that does not necessarily translate into economic paralysis.

Although fewer workers were active, those who remained logged more hours. In July, IMMEX hours worked increased 0.6% compared to the previous month. In manufacturing, the increase was 0.7%, and in non-manufacturing, 0.2%.

The annual picture is different: compared to July 2024, hours fell 2%, with a 2.6% decline in manufacturing, although non-manufacturing hours increased 2.6%.

The most encouraging aspect came from the wage front. Average real IMMEX wages grew 0.8% monthly and 6.7% annually. This means that, despite job losses, those who remain employed are receiving better incomes adjusted for inflation.

Consider Laura, a maquiladora worker on the northern border. In recent months, she has seen several of her colleagues laid off. However, those who remain, like her, work longer hours and earn better wages. Uncertainty is constant, but there is also hope that the maquiladora industry in Mexico will regain its stability thanks to international trade.

Laura's story is that of thousands of IMMEX workers who, despite the adjustments, sustain a fundamental part of the Mexican economy.

These data are clear: the Mexican manufacturing and export industries are undergoing a transformation. Fewer employees, but with longer workdays and higher wages, may indicate a change in productivity and hiring patterns.

The key question is whether this scenario is sustainable over time. If the decline in employment continues, the challenge will be to balance efficiency with workplace well-being.