Mexico Advances Strategic Science and Technology Projects
Mexico is making significant strides in science and technology through strategic projects focused on semiconductor development, electric vehicle innovation, lithium exploitation, satellite technology, and medical device production. These initiatives, spearheaded by the Secretariat of Science, Humanities, Technology and Innovation (Secihti) under the leadership of Rosaura Ruiz Gutiérrez, aim to address national priorities and foster international collaboration.
Key Initiatives and Progress
Semiconductor Development
Mexico is working to reduce its reliance on imported integrated circuits by developing its own semiconductor capabilities. The Kutsari National Semiconductor Center, with locations in Puebla, Jalisco, and Sonora, is currently focused on the development of integrated circuits, electromechanical systems, solar cells, and semiconductors. Rosaura Ruiz Gutiérrez emphasized the importance of this project for the Mexican electronics industry.
Mini Electric Vehicle Project (Olinia)
The Olinia project aims to create an accessible, safe, and environmentally sustainable mini electric vehicle. The prototype is expected to be unveiled around the start of the Soccer World Cup, as promised by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo. This project is a collaborative effort involving the National Polytechnic Institute (IPN), the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), the National Technology of Mexico, and various Public Research Centers (CPI) affiliated with Secihti. The vehicle is designed to be adaptable for various work applications and provide affordable mobility.
Lithium Exploitation
Mexico is actively pursuing the exploitation of its lithium resources with the support of Litiomx, the Ministry of Energy, and the Center for Research in Advanced Materials (Cimav). Cimav has already patented a process for lithium extraction from clays. While current extraction processes are not yet economically viable due to high costs, ongoing research and collaboration with other CPIs aim to improve efficiency and profitability.
National Ecos Network
The National Ecos Network represents a shift towards a more collaborative approach to science and technology in Mexico. It involves engaging experts from various fields to collectively address national challenges. This initiative, institutionalized by the federal government, aims to coordinate efforts across universities and research centers, fostering a State-supported approach to problem-solving.
Satellite Technology (Ixtli)
The Ixtli project focuses on developing nanosatellites for Earth observation. The first of four satellites is under development, with a planned launch in early 2027. These satellites will generate high-resolution multispectral images, providing valuable data for prevention efforts, such as wildfire monitoring. The project involves specialists from UNAM, IPN, the Center for Scientific Research and Higher Education of Ensenada (Cicese), and the Popular Autonomous University of the State of Puebla.
Meta-oceanic Monitoring and Early Warning (Apixqui)
In collaboration with the Secretariat of the Navy of Mexico and Cicese, the Apixqui project is developing a system for meta-oceanic monitoring and early warning of extreme meteorological and oceanographic events in the Mexican Pacific. This inter-institutional system will utilize buoys to gather critical data.
Unmanned Aerial System (Quetzal)
The Quetzal project, also a collaboration between Secihti, the Secretariat of the Navy, and Cicese, aims to design, develop, and produce a multipurpose unmanned aerial system for use by various agencies.
Medical Device Production
Secihti is collaborating with the Mexican Social Security Institute and the Federal Commission for the Protection against Health Risks (Cofepris) to design and produce medical devices, particularly for dialysis and hemodialysis. This initiative addresses the growing demand for kidney disease care in Mexico and aims to improve access to affordable, high-quality medical technology.
Scholarships and National System of Researchers
Mexico has increased its investment in postgraduate scholarships, with 103,064 beneficiaries in the current year, a 5.4 percent increase from 2025. The National System of Researchers (SNII) has also expanded, now comprising 48,094 members, a 7.4 percent increase from 2025.