Mexico City to Attract $750 Million Biotechnology Plant, Creating 500 Specialized Jobs
Mexico City, August 12 – Green Light Biosciences will invest 750 million pesos (equivalent to 100 million US dollars) for the construction of a biotechnology plant in Mexico City. This first-of-its-kind facility in the country will produce biofungicides and other biotechnological inputs for agriculture, based on RNA technology. The plant is expected to generate 500 direct specialized jobs. The exact location of the new plant has not yet been revealed.
Innovative RNA Technology for Agriculture
The new plant will focus on producing biofungicides and other biotechnological inputs that utilize RNA molecules. This technology allows for precise targeting of specific pest and fungal genes, without affecting other organisms or leaving toxic residues in the soil, water, or crops. This positions Mexico ahead of markets such as the United States, Brazil, and the European Union in the registration of the world’s first RNA biofungicide.
Andrey Zarur, founder of Green Light Biosciences, stated that the ‘Mexico Plan’ enabled coordinated efforts between the Federal Commission for Protection against Sanitary Risks (Cofepris), the National Service for Agri-food Health, Safety and Quality (Senasica), and the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat) to conduct a thorough evaluation of scientific data within nine months of dossier submission.
The new biotechnology is expected to reach the country’s main crops in the medium term, potentially replacing chemical alternatives. This technology will be applicable in virtually all states with strong agricultural traditions and economies, benefiting crops such as strawberries, avocados, grapes, corn, and cotton, which are crucial for farmers’ economic and financial well-being.
Strategic Location and Skilled Workforce
Arturo Adolfo Palacios Romo, Director General of Investment Attraction for the local Ministry of Economic Development (Sedeco), explained that Green Light Biosciences’ decision to choose Mexico City was influenced by the capital’s ability to produce 11,000 graduates annually in life sciences, not including the metropolitan area. This ensures a consistent supply of specialized talent and fosters innovation.
Mexico City also boasts a robust airport cluster, including the Mexico City International Airport (AICM), Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA), and Toluca International Airport. This connectivity is comparable only to Sao Paulo in Latin America, providing unparalleled access to North America, Asia, the rest of the region, and Europe.
The agility of customs at AICM, the main entry point for reagents, inputs, and equipment for research, is also a key factor. A decree published in May further streamlines the import process for these essential biotechnology research materials, enhancing the city’s competitiveness.
Emerging Biotechnology Cluster
Mexico City is already a hub for pharmaceutical plants, and these existing capabilities can be transferred to biotechnology for other applications. The recent announcement of the Tlalpan Innovation District, a scientific and entrepreneurial hub, further strengthens the region’s biotech ecosystem. This district, with an investment of 125 million dollars and participation from Tecnológico de Monterrey, the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), and Sedeco, focuses on applied research in health, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals. However, the Sedeco official clarified that the new Green Light Biosciences plant will not be located within this district, as it focuses on human health applications.
The investment by Green Light Biosciences underscores Mexico City’s growing importance as a center for biotechnological innovation and its commitment to sustainable agricultural practices.
Source: https://www.eleconomista.com.mx/estados/ciudad-mexico-atraera-planta-biotecnologica-inversion-750-millones-pesos-20260812-827994.html
