Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
COSTEP, Council for South Texas Economic Progress has announced the development of a new digital platform designed to map and analyze the manufacturing landscape of the Rio South Texas Region. The initiative marks the first phase in the creation of the Rio South Texas Binational Autocluster and aims to consolidate comprehensive data on local manufacturers.
Adam Gonzalez, Chief Executive Officer of COSTEP, emphasized the importance of the platform in strengthening the region’s economic infrastructure. “This tool will allow us to identify key industrial sectors, map out manufacturing processes, and better understand the capabilities of our regional ecosystem,” Gonzalez said. “It’s about using data to drive smart growth and attract new opportunities.”
The Industrial Data System will include detailed company-level information—such as industry sector, country of origin, products, services, and installed capacities—across cities in the Rio Grande Valley, Laredo, Northern Tamaulipas, Mexico, and the Rio South Texas Region. Data will be collected locally using standardized surveys conducted in partnership with economic development organizations and industrial associations. Semiannual updates will ensure the system remains accurate and relevant.
“This isn’t just a database; it’s a strategic platform to enhance regional collaboration and better integrate our industries into national and global supply chains,” Gonzalez added.
The project is expected to roll out in three phases: initial data gathering, digital platform development in late 2025, and a full launch with an outreach campaign in early 2026. COSTEP is actively inviting local companies and economic development entities to participate in data collection and upcoming launch events.
“Our call to action is simple,” Gonzalez stated. “Help us build this together so the region can thrive together.”
