**Baja California Among Top Four States with Highest Job Losses at the Start of 2025**
As of January 2025, Baja California saw the addition of 9,436 formal jobs compared to the previous month. However, it remains one of the top four states with the most significant job losses over a year, according to the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS).
The state had 1,017,738 jobs by January 2025, a decrease of 17,645 jobs (or 1.7%) from January 2024, which recorded 1,035,383 positions.
On a national level, thirteen states faced job losses. Tabasco experienced the largest drop at 10.7%, followed by Campeche at 7.6%, Zacatecas at 2.8%, and Baja California at 1.7%. In contrast, job growth was noted in Hidalgo (4%), Mexico State (3.9%), Chiapas (3.4%), and Nuevo León (3.4%).
January saw the creation of 73,167 formal jobs across the country, marking the lowest growth rate since 2021. This increase mainly stemmed from temporary job positions, with the overall employment growth standing at 0.3% monthly and 0.8% annually.
By January’s end, the IMSS recorded 22,311,546 job positions, of which 86.8% were permanent, and 13.2% were temporary.
The sectors with the most job creation were commerce (2.9%), transportation and communications (2.6%), business services (2.0%), electricity (2.0%), and social and communal services (1.8%). Conversely, job losses were noted in the manufacturing sector (-0.2%), agriculture (-0.6%), extractive industries (-1.3%), and construction (-6.3%).
The total number of employers decreased by 2.0% from January 2024, totaling 1,049,430.
**Additional Insights:**
In the broader context, the employment market in Mexico faces the potential of further challenges. The Senate’s possible changes to the Infonavit Law could result in the layoff of around two million workers, posing a significant threat to job stability. Furthermore, economic analysts express concern over Mexico entering a recession if tariff negotiations put on pause don’t resume effectively.
In addition to these economic pressures, the country’s response to migrant issues leaves room for improvement, with many stranded without adequate support after temporary relief measures expire. External factors, such as the seizure and destruction of illegal substances, also influence the national socio-economic landscape.
These elements combined underline the complex and multifaceted nature of Mexico’s current and potential economic situation, impacting both employment and overall economic stability.