**Mexico’s Legislative Reform Establishes CFE and PEMEX as State-Owned Enterprises**
On October 9, 2024, Mexico’s Chamber of Deputies voted to approve a significant constitutional reform that classifies the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) and Petróleos Mexicanos (PEMEX) as official state-owned enterprises. This reform involved amendments to articles 25, 27, and 28 of the Mexican Constitution and was originally proposed by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador on February 5, 2024.
The proposal passed with 353 votes in favor and 122 against, with support stemming from the Morena, Green Ecologist Party of Mexico (PVEM), and Labor Party (PT) factions, while opposition came from the National Action Party (PAN), Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), and Citizen’s Movement (MC).
Morena Deputy Alma Rosa de la Vega Vargas highlighted the importance of maintaining state control over these entities to ensure that public interest prevails, given the critical role of electricity in social and economic development. Similarly, PVEM’s Carlos Alberto Guevara Garza emphasized the aim to restore CFE and PEMEX to their fundamental status as public enterprises, enhancing them as tools for national development.
However, opposition voices, such as PAN’s María Angélica Granados Trespalacios, argued against the reform, citing concerns over the lack of transparency and accountability. Margarita Ester Zavala Gómez del Campo, another PAN member, criticized the ruling party for inadequate management practices and warned of potential treaty violations.
Accusations from PRI Deputy Hugo Eduardo Gutiérrez Arroyo described the reform as a detrimental move for Mexico’s competitiveness and economic growth, arguing it reverts back to outdated frameworks.
**Secondary Article: Potential Impacts of Mexico’s Constitutional Reform on Energy Sector**
In light of the recent legislative changes establishing CFE and PEMEX as state-run entities, experts anticipate several potential impacts on Mexico’s energy sector. This reform places emphasis on national sovereignty over strategic resources, marking a shift from previous privatization trends that aimed to foster foreign investment and competition.
Critics worry that the increased state control could lead to inefficiencies and hinder innovation within the sector. This change also raises questions about Mexico’s adherence to international agreements, which might affect its relationships with foreign investors and trade partners.
Supporters argue that this move protects Mexico’s energy resources and aligns with global trends of strategic self-reliance. As the world focuses on sustainability and self-sufficiency, these state-owned enterprises could become pivotal players in Mexico’s economic future, fostering energy independence and security.
Observers will closely watch how this reform unfolds, determining whether these enterprises can achieve the balance of national control and operational efficiency, ultimately contributing to Mexico’s broader economic landscape.