Market Intelligence
Plastic Materials and Resins Plastics Production Machinery Mexico Export Potential

Mexico Recycling Machinery

Focus on the post-industrial segment 

Plastic recycling machinery will be in demand in Mexico for the next few years, especially machinery that can be integrated into the production process and is capable of producing high-purity, near-prime pellets.  Over the last 15 years, the recycling industry in Mexico has grown while achieving a higher level of quality.   

More Mexican manufacturers are re-integrating post-industrial waste plastics into their processes. Some manufacturers do not want to depend on third party suppliers and are considering creating in-house recycling units, thus opening opportunities for U.S. sales of recycling machinery and auxiliary equipment.   

Precise export values for U.S. exports of recycling machinery is difficult to obtain, but export data of general manufacturing machinery (NAICS 3332 and 3339) provides a hint into Mexico’s potential for U.S. exports. The United States total exports to the world of these two NAICS segments amounted to USD 58.2 billion, and Mexico purchased 10.6 percent of that in 2019.  

Some international machinery manufacturers are capitalizing on this trend and have established distribution offices in Mexico; however, it is possible to find customers through a B2B strategy. 

Target new clients through B2Bs

Mexico’s post-industrial waste recycling is becoming an attractive recycling business model, yet the average Mexican recycler lacks the proper machinery for processing PE, PS, PP, and PVC to the recycled purity required by the industry.  To meet their internal recycling requirements, OEM manufacturers are recycling in-house.  U.S. manufacturers looking for new customers for their machinery should utilize B2B services at any of the recommended trade shows listed below to meet buyers and engineers from the most relevant companies who will be in attendance.  

The U.S. Commercial Service can help U.S. exporters participate in the B2B and assist in connecting with prospective buyers.  U.S exporters may consider the following trade events. 

U.S. exporters of machinery to recycle plastics looking to increase their opportunities in Mexico are encouraged to connect with a commercial specialist in the U.S. Commercial Service for counseling on how to best leverage on B2Bs at upcoming trade show events.

For more information, contact: 

Mario Vidaña 
Commercial Specialist 
Ph. +52 81 8047 3118 
Mario.vidana@trade.gov  

The information provided in this report is intended to be of assistance to U.S. exporters. While we make every effort to ensure its accuracy, neither the United States government nor any of its employees make any representation as to the accuracy or completeness of information in this or any other United States government document. Readers are advised to independently verify any information prior to reliance thereon. The information provided in this report does not constitute legal advice. The Commercial Service reference to or inclusion of material by a non-U.S. Government entity in this document is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement by the Commercial Service of the entity, its materials, or its products or services.