Our work

More than 20 years ago, IMCO disrupted Mexico's approach to public policy by establishing itself as an unbiased think tank based on rigorous analysis and hard facts, all the while promoting open discussions through its clear and comprehensible communication style.

Our policy proposals are the product of an interdisciplinary team consisting of researchers and experts in various subjects of public interest.

At IMCO we promote a work culture of respect for diversity, labor equality, and an anti-discrimination and gender equity policy. In the institution we strive for  impartiality in the treatment of men and women, keeping in mind gender equity, benefits, obligations, and opportunities. Therefore, we give priority to work based on results and not on hours, which has allowed the Institute to retain  its talent, especially of women.

Why do we measure competitiveness?

IMCO defines competitiveness as the ability to generate, attract, and retain talent and investment that boosts the productivity and well being of its inhabitants. It is based on 10 factors that determine the performance of a country in the short and long term.

Competitiveness is the lens through which we view policies and decision-changes at the governmental, businesses, and individual level, both in Mexico and around the world, with the goal of making Mexico a more prosperous and inclusive country.

10 Factores

1

A trustworthy and goal-oriented legal system (law)

This measures the public and judicial security that the citizens enjoy. The existence of clear rules and sound institutions is crucial to the development of a trustworthy business environment, which fosters investments and a higher quality of life.

Sustainable management of the environment (Environment)

This measures the effectiveness of the manufacturing sectors in maintaining sustainable use of natural resources, which directly improves people’s living standards.

An inclusive, prepared, and healthy society (Society)

This measures the government’s efforts to foster equality, focusing on equal access to education and healthcare for all its citizens. As the government improves in this regard, so too will the adequate formation, attraction, and retention of human capital and investment.

A stable and functional political system (Political system)

This evaluates the state of the political systems based on three categories: 1) the levels of corruption and accountability, 2) the participation and competitiveness of the electoral system, and 3) the protection of civil and political rights. A democratic and inclusive political system is a public good in and of itself, but it has the added value of encouraging investment by fostering political stability.

Efficient and Effective Government (Governments)

This measures the impact that policies and governmental institutions have on the market. Specifically, it considers how economic stimulus, public spending, and formalization of labor retains and attracts talent and investment.

Market of Efficient Factors (Market of Factors)

This evaluates market conditions based on the chief factor of production: labor. It considers measures such as productivity, added value, and salary. A labor market where workers are productive and resources are used efficiently attracts more talent and investment.

Stable economy (Economy)

This measures macroeconomic stability in terms of income growth, price volatility, public debt, and private credit. More stable macroeconomic conditions attract more human capital and investment.

Prominent Sectors of the World Class (Prominence)

This measures elements related to the financial, telecommunications, and transportation sectors. These are necessary conditions to drive economic growth, investment, and human capital, as they have a direct impact on other sectors of the economy by facilitating trade, providing cutting-edge services, fostering innovation, and developing products and companies.

International Relations

This measures the economy’s abilities to foster international relations and utilize them to attract talent and investment.

Innovation and Sophistication in Economic Sectors (Innovation)

It measures the ability to create and apply new knowledge that enables successful competition in the economy, particularly in high added value sectors, knowledge-intensive, and cutting-edge technology.

 

IMCO organizes these factors in the shape of a pyramid, recognizing that all are crucial, yet those at the foundation are prerequisites for the existence of the others.

In addition, IMCO takes into account the minimum acceptable level that these factors can have, which is based on the international average. This is because, in a globalized economic environment, a country is an investment alternative for an investor. In other words, the significance of a factor lies in how high or low it is compared to other countries.