Tamaulipas economy grows 5.2%, posting the country’s second-biggest advance

Tamaulipas recorded its strongest economic performance in years, growing 5.2% in the first quarter of 2026 and ranking second nationwide, according to the National Institute of Statistics and Geography’s state economic activity indicator.

The result marked an acceleration after the state economy contracted 0.9% in 2023 and grew 2.4% in both 2024 and 2025. Between the second quarter of 2023 and the first quarter of 2026, average annual growth reached 2.12%.

The main push came from secondary activities, particularly industry and the production of goods. That sector shifted from a 4.9% decline in 2023 to 9.4% growth in the first quarter of this year. By March, Tamaulipas had 350 establishments registered under the IMMEX program and held important national positions in exports of chemicals, electrical appliances, computing and communications equipment, electronic components and machinery.

The state is strengthening its industrial and energy profile while seeking to attract and expand projects linked to higher-demand technology sectors. Governor Américo Villarreal Anaya said economic growth must be matched by stronger preparation for workers and professionals.

He urged the leaders of technological institutes, polytechnic universities and the Autonomous University of Tamaulipas to adjust student training to the opportunities emerging in the state. The government is emphasizing specialties including renewable energy, photovoltaic cell installation, electricity generation, wind power, petrochemicals, energy biotechnology, gas and refined products. Villarreal cited a liquefied natural gas project developed by Fortress and the Federal Electricity Commission as an example of the investment Tamaulipas hopes will create specialized jobs and local supply chains.

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We continue inviting the leaders of the technological institutes, the polytechnic universities and the Autonomous University of Tamaulipas not to lose sight of the great opportunities Tamaulipas has, and to make the training and opportunities we offer young people increasingly relevant.