Companies in Santa Catarina: Growth and opportunities

Santa Catarina is known for its diversified economy and strong presence in various industries. The most prominent sectors include automotive, manufacturing, and technology. These industries drive the state’s economy and offer great potential for business growth and development.

In 2023, Santa Catarina generated approximately US$5,973M in international sales, thanks to air conditioning machinery, escalator parts, conveyors, and auto parts, mainly to the United States, followed by Canada and Brazil. In 2024, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Nuevo León reached US$2,304M, with the top investing countries being the Netherlands, South Korea, and the United States (US$284M).

The automotive industry is one of the most prominent in Santa Catarina and plays a vital role in the municipality’s economy. Globally recognized companies, such as Mercedes-Benz, have set up significant production facilities in the area. The proximity to the U.S. border, road infrastructure, and skilled labor force have made this state a competitive automotive production hub.

The automotive sector in Santa Catarina is creating thousands of jobs and contributes significantly to the state’s GDP, boosting both the local and national economy. Furthermore, this sector has developed many large and small supplier companies that provide essential parts and components for vehicle production, generating a highly productive and competitive ecosystem.

In addition to the automotive industry, technology and manufacturing industries also play a crucial role in Santa Catarina’s economic development. The government has observed an increase in the formation of technology companies, particularly in electronics production, industrial automation, and software services. Advanced infrastructure and the availability of highly skilled personnel have made Santa Catarina an attractive hub for international technology companies looking to establish their operations in Mexico.

The state has maintained a strong presence in manufacturing sectors such as textiles, steel, and heavy machinery. Specialization in producing electronic components, plastics, and metals has grown significantly. The high quality of manufacturing in Santa Catarina has made many foreign companies decide to invest and expand their operations in the region.

Factors driving business growth

Santa Catarina has positioned itself as a municipality with significant potential for business growth due to several key factors. These include its strategic infrastructure, favorable geographic location, and public policies encouraging investment and economic development.

Strategic infrastructure in Santa Catarina

One of the main factors driving business growth in Santa Catarina is its infrastructure. The municipality boasts an efficient transport network, including high-quality highways and railway systems that facilitate logistics and trade. Furthermore, its proximity to Monterrey, one of Mexico’s leading industrial cities, has created an even more dynamic business environment.

Technological infrastructure is also a key factor for companies operating in Santa Catarina. The availability of high-quality telecommunications services and high-speed internet access has enabled technology and manufacturing companies to operate more efficiently and competitively.

Advantages of its geographical location

Santa Catarina’s geographical location is also a crucial factor for business growth. The municipality is strategically located in northern Mexico, in the state of Nuevo León, near the U.S. border, facilitating trade and logistics with the U.S. market, one of the largest and most dynamic in the world. This location allows it to serve as a key transit point for distributing products and manufactured goods.

In addition, its proximity to Monterrey and other major industrial cities enables companies in Santa Catarina to benefit from the economic and commercial connections between these centers of activity. The location also facilitates access to raw materials and international markets, which is essential for business growth in the state.

Investment opportunities in Santa Catarina

Santa Catarina has created a favorable environment for foreign investment. Numerous opportunities exist for companies seeking to expand their operations in Mexico, particularly in automotive, manufacturing, technology, and renewable energy sectors.

Developing industrial zones

The municipality of Santa Catarina has made significant investments in developing industrial zones designed to attract companies and promote economic growth. These industrial zones feature modern infrastructure and access to essential energy, water, and telecommunications services. Santa Catarina’s industrial zone is strategically located, allowing efficient product distribution nationally and internationally.

The Santa Catarina government has also promoted tax incentives to attract companies to its industrial zone, increasing investor interest. The industrial area in Santa Catarina is focused on key sectors such as advanced manufacturing, technology, and automotive, making them ideal locations for investment. At VYNMSA, we have industrial spaces in the region suitable for your company’s growth and development. We are strategically located in the Santa Catarina industrial zone, with modern infrastructure and all the essential services. Additionally, our location provides access to major transportation and logistics routes, improving connectivity and promoting development.

• VYNMSA Santa Catarina Industrial Park
• VYNMSA Metropolitan Industrial Park – SPEC I
• VYNMSA Metropolitan Industrial Park – SPEC II
• VYNMSA Metropolitan Industrial Park II

Incentive programs for companies

Santa Catarina offers various incentive programs to encourage investment and business growth for local and foreign companies. These programs include tax benefits, investment subsidies for infrastructure, personnel training, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) looking to expand their operations. The state and municipal governments collaborate with business organizations to ensure that investment support policies are accessible and practical.

In addition to tax incentives, the state has implemented training and skills development programs to ensure the local workforce is well-equipped to meet the challenges of advanced industrial and technological sectors. This combination of tax incentives, business support, and workforce development makes Santa Catarina an attractive destination for business investment.

Impact of companies on the local economy

Companies in Santa Catarina are driving economic growth and positively impacting the local economy. These businesses generate not only direct jobs but also foster infrastructure development, local commerce, and the growth of other industries.

Job creation

One of the primary contributions of companies in Santa Catarina is job creation. For example, the German company Siemens inaugurated a new plant in Santa Catarina in 2024 with an investment of over one billion pesos, creating 450 jobs.

The automotive, manufacturing, and technology services industries have generated thousands of jobs in the state, improving the region’s employment levels and quality of life. The presence of foreign companies has also contributed to creating quality jobs, with competitive wages and labor benefits for the local population.

Business growth has also positively impacted talent development and workforce training, improving regional employability and educational levels.

Contribution to Economic Growth

Companies in Santa Catarina contribute to employment and play a key role in the economic growth of the state and country. Thanks to the expansion of key automotive, manufacturing, and technology industries, Santa Catarina has experienced a significant increase in its Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The rise in exports, foreign investments, and the growth of local businesses have made Santa Catarina one of the most dynamic municipalities in Mexico.

Companies also foster economic growth through investments in infrastructure, purchases from local suppliers, and participation in international trade, creating a multiplier effect that benefits the entire regional economy.

Santa Catarina has become one of the most important municipalities for the economic growth and development of Nuevo León. Its diversified economy, which includes automotive, technology, and manufacturing sectors, has created a favorable environment for businesses with modern infrastructure, tax incentives, and a strategic location. Investment opportunities, job impact, and economic growth are just a few factors that make Santa Catarina an attractive destination for investors and companies. To learn more about investment opportunities and the business environment in Santa Catarina, contact us and discover the options we offer for your company’s growth.