Mexican light vehicle exports 2010-2024

Mexico's light vehicle exports grew in recent years, reaching approximately 3.5 million vehicles in 2024. This figure represents a significant recovery from the pandemic-induced slump in 2020, when exports dropped by 20.8 percent. The steady increase in export volume underscores Mexico's role in the global automotive industry.

United States remains the primary export destination

The United States continues to be the dominant market for Mexican light vehicle exports, accounting for a staggering 80.2 percent of total exports in 2024. Nearly 2.8 million units were shipped to the U.S., highlighting the strong trade relationship between the two countries in the automotive sector. This concentration of exports to a single market underscores the importance of maintaining robust trade agreements and logistics networks with the United States. Nearshoring is also significant for the Central American country, as General Motors was the largest light vehicle producer in Mexico. 

Automotive trade balance and regional impact

Mexico's automotive industry has maintained a positive trade balance over the past decade, with exports reaching approximately 156.5 billion U.S. dollars in 2023, a 15 percent increase from the previous year. The country's influence extends beyond North America, with Brazil importing nearly 2.3 billion U.S. dollars worth of motor vehicles and auto parts from Mexico in 2023. This diversification of export markets demonstrates Mexico's growing importance as an automotive manufacturing hub and its ability to compete in various international markets.