The United States Remains the Primary Market for Both
Mexico ended 2024 with record highs in both exports and imports of agri-food products, according to official data compiled by the Agricultural Market Consulting Group (GCMA).
Mexico has exclusive rights to produce tequila due to its protected geographical indication, making it a unique export product. As the sole supplier of this market, Mexico has held a globally recognized appellation of origin (AO) since 1974. Today, Mexican law restricts its legal production to five states: Jalisco, Guanajuato, Michoacán, Nayarit, and Tamaulipas.
The export of tequila and beer is highly significant to Mexico’s economy. Beer is currently the top export, while tequila ranks among the country’s largest export products, contributing substantially to the nation’s agri-food exports. These beverages generate significant revenue through global sales, particularly to the United States. Both tequila and beer are deeply intertwined with Mexican culture and identity.
Additionally, tequila and beer are among Mexico’s top five most valuable agro-industrial goods, alongside berries, avocados, and tomatoes.
Mexico is a country rich in cultural heritage and flavors. Its diverse food and beverage industry reflects the nation’s unique history, geography, and traditions. This sector is deeply rooted in ancient indigenous practices and shaped by colonial influences, offering a vast array of products, from world-renowned tequilas to spicy salsas and traditional tortillas.
The value of imports increased due to a strong rise in the grain sector, primarily corn. In contrast, exports continue to be driven by the growing demand for beer and tequila, especially in the United States.
Beer production is one of the 14 most important manufacturing activities in Mexico. The total beer industry value chain contributes 1% to the national GDP.
Microbreweries hold only 0.1% of the total market in Mexico, yet there are over 600 artisanal beer projects across the country. The leading states for artisanal breweries, in order, are Baja California, Mexico City, Michoacán, and Jalisco.
According to monitoring by a private organization, Mexico’s agri-food imports in 2024 amounted to $45.28 billion, a 5.8% increase compared to $42.80 billion in 2023.
Meanwhile, the value of agri-food exports reached $53.95billion, reflecting a 5.2% increase from the $51.28 billion reported in the previous year.
As a result, Mexico maintained a trade surplus of $8.67 billion in 2024, meaning the country sold more food products internationally than it imported to meet domestic demand.
Beer was the leading export, generating $6.72 billion, 9.1% higher than the $6.16 billion reported in 2023.
Tequila ranked second with $4.28 billion, a 3.3% decline from the $4.42 billion recorded the previous year.
Avocado exports ranked third, increasing 20.1% to $3.79 billion. Beef exports (cattle and meat) followed in fourth place with $3.51 billion, reflecting 7.8% growth.
Tomatoes secured fifth place with $3.34 billion, an 11.7% increase.
Berries ranked sixth at $2.96 billion, showing a modest 2% increase. Sugar followed in seventh place with the same $2.96 billion valuation but experienced a 13.7% decline. Peppers ranked eighth at $1.85 billion, with a 15.9% increase.
In December 2024 alone, the value of agri-food exports reached $4.58 billion, marking an 8.4% increase from the same period in 2023.