The second Mexican presidential debate was marked by intense exchanges and accusations among candidates. Xóchitl Gálvez accused Claudia Sheinbaum of links to organized crime and corruption, while Sheinbaum defended her record and countered with accusations against the opposition. The debate featured questions from citizens, including indigenous communities, and highlighted issues such as corruption, water crisis, and multiculturalism. Jorge Álvarez Máynez presented a unique closing message inspired by his young son. The debate underscored the political tensions and strategies leading up to the election.

In the Mexican electoral race led by two female candidates, the significant economic issue of the gender bonus is notably absent. Mexican women have low participation in remunerated work, with a large portion engaged in informal labor. Increasing female labor participation to match male levels could significantly boost Mexico's GDP. The article criticizes the lack of commitment from candidates to address this issue and highlights the economic and social challenges faced by women, exacerbated by policies under López Obrador's administration. The need for a comprehensive national care system is emphasized, yet remains unaddressed by the candidates.

Irregular immigration is a significant issue for U.S. President Joe Biden as he seeks re-election. Biden and Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador have agreed to implement measures to curb irregular border crossings and address the root causes of migration. The White House and López Obrador emphasized the importance of managing migration and maintaining border security while protecting human rights. A previously proposed bill to strengthen border services was blocked by Donald Trump. Biden is considering executive actions to manage immigration, potentially invoking Section 212(f) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. López Obrador noted a decrease in migrant arrivals at the border, attributing it to aid programs in countries like Venezuela.

The Mexican peso depreciated by up to 1.5% following the release of the latest US economic growth data, which showed a lower-than-expected GDP increase of 1.6% in the first quarter. This contrasts with other emerging market currencies that appreciated against the dollar. Gabriela Siller from Banco Base noted that the peso is now the most depreciated currency among major crosses due to the US GDP growth falling short of market expectations. Jonathan Heath from Banco de México highlighted the complexity of predicting peso movements, given that 80% of its operations occur in foreign markets.

The Mexican government's economic policies have successfully attracted significant foreign investment, as highlighted by Secretary of Finance Rogelio Ramírez de la O. He emphasized the confidence shown by international companies in Mexico's economic outlook and government policies. Key pillars of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's economic strategy include social programs, public infrastructure investment, legal certainty, and fiscal responsibility. Despite challenges in the energy sector, nearshoring is expected to boost Mexico's GDP. The event also featured discussions on industrial policy and future trade agreement reviews with the US and Canada.

The 87th Banking Convention in Acapulco served as a prelude to President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's departure, highlighting economic achievements such as over 3% annual growth, near-full employment, and record bank profits. The event also featured presidential candidates Gálvez and Sheinbaum, who presented their economic visions. Gálvez received strong support, emphasizing problem-solving for businesses, while Sheinbaum focused on economic achievements and fiscal responsibility. The banking sector's primary concern remains the rule of law and security, crucial for maintaining investment confidence and combating organized crime.

The 87th Banking Convention in Acapulco served as a platform for Mexico's presidential candidates to present their economic plans. Claudia Sheinbaum of Morena defended the economic legacy of López Obrador, focusing on pension reform and infrastructure projects like the Tren Maya. Xóchitl Gálvez, representing the opposition coalition PAN-PRI-PRD, criticized the current administration's policies and emphasized private sector involvement. Jorge Álvarez Máynez of Movimiento Ciudadano proposed fiscal reforms and criticized the management of Pemex. The convention highlighted differing economic visions ahead of the upcoming elections.

On the 86th anniversary of Mexico's nationalization of oil, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador reaffirmed his commitment to the state-owned oil company Pemex, drawing parallels to the actions of former President Lázaro Cárdenas. He criticized the premature shift to clean energies and warned against foreign dependence in this sector. Pemex, despite being the world's most indebted oil company, has seen an increase in production and financial support from the government. López Obrador's administration has focused on refining domestic crude oil and maintaining low fuel prices, opposing the broader trend of transitioning to renewable energy technologies.

The trade route between China and Mexico has surged by nearly 60% in January, establishing itself as one of the world's largest. This growth is attributed to Chinese companies potentially using Mexico as a conduit to bypass U.S. tariffs, amidst ongoing trade tensions. Mexico's strategic position as part of the USMCA and its competitive wage structure make it an attractive alternative for Chinese exports. However, this has led to a significant trade deficit for Mexico, with textiles and footwear being notably affected. In response, Mexico has amended its import tax laws to protect domestic industries, aligning with U.S. trade policies.

The commercial route from China to Mexico saw a 60% increase in January, making it one of the fastest-growing trade routes globally. This growth is attributed to Chinese companies potentially using Mexico to bypass U.S. tariffs. The Confederation of Industrial Chambers (Concamin) highlighted a significant trade deficit between Mexico and China, while China Southern plans to launch direct flights to Mexico City, indicating strengthening business ties. Mexico has also imposed tariffs on imports from non-free trade agreement countries, including China, to protect its domestic industry.