Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
The Pharr Economic Development Corporation (PEDC) continually seeks to foster and strengthen economic and industrial relationships, driving growth and collaboration in Pharr, Texas, and the broader South Texas region. Led by Victor Perez, President & CEO, Economic Business Development Director Lilvette Santos, Luis Bazan, Director of Pharr-Reynosa International Bridge, and Ezequiel Ordonez, PEDC and PIB Consultant.
PEDC embarked on a journey to Aguascalientes, Mexico, to participate in the 2024 National Convention of COMCE (Consejo Mexicano de Comercio Exterior). The event provided a platform for discussions on international trade and economic development and fostering collaboration with Mexican industries, ultimately aiming to enhance Mexico’s position in the global economy. Maria Teresa Jimenez Esquivel, Governor of Aguascalientes, Mexico, highlighted the event.
The convention’s first day saw a significant milestone with a dinner hosted by COMCE Zacatecas, featuring the presence of Eduardo Vazquez Loya, owner of VAZLO, a prominent player in the automotive parts industry. VAZLO specializes in manufacturing and supplying automotive components for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and aftermarket suppliers, servicing diverse domestic and international markets. This gathering allowed PEDC representatives to connect with VAZLO’s leadership and explore mutual interests in expanding cross-border collaboration.
“Meeting with influential industry leaders such as Mr. Vazquez helps lay the groundwork for long-term economic partnerships,” remarked Victor Perez. “It demonstrates our commitment to forging meaningful connections and expanding Pharr’s reach into critical sectors.”
The PEDC’s visit to E-Beam, a leading food irradiation company in Aguascalientes, highlighted their ongoing efforts to tap into emerging technological advancements. E-Beam leverages state-of-the-art ionizing radiation technology to improve food safety, extend shelf life, and reduce spoilage for fresh produce, grains, and packaged foods. Their compliance with stringent international food safety standards has positioned them as a key player in domestic and global markets.
Perez highlighted the significance of these discussions: “At Pharr EDC, we are constantly seeking innovative partners whose work aligns with our mission to enhance economic opportunities. E-Beam’s interest in Pharr is evidence of our region’s compelling value proposition.”
The second day also featured the impactful presentation, “So Pharr & Beyond: A Gateway to Synergies and Possibilities,” where PEDC showcased Pharr’s strategic location as a vital trade gateway, emphasizing economic opportunities, synergies with U.S. and Mexican businesses and ongoing infrastructure development projects. The event attracted over 25 companies and 65 attendees, including government officials and business leaders. As part of the presentation, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between COMCE Nacional and PEDC, marking a significant step toward formalized collaboration.
Victor Perez emphasized: “This MOU represents a shared vision and commitment to creating opportunities that benefit Pharr and our Mexican partners. It is a tangible reflection of our efforts to foster economic growth, drive innovation, and bridge international markets.”
Luis Bazan, Director of Pharr-Reynosa International Bridge, added, “An MOU is just the beginning of better opportunities to come; what’s next, the real work starts now when you go back home following up with the decision-makers, the impact players who will play a critical role in future investments, future developments, growth and most importantly sustained growth for Pharr and the region.”
The convention’s final day focused on strategic discussions and roundtable meetings to strengthen Mexico’s trade relationships and address market challenges. PEDC, in collaboration with the Pharr-Reynosa International Bridge, presented initiatives such as the Pharr Border Business Advancement Initiative, further highlighting the role of infrastructure in facilitating cross-border trade.
The roundtable discussion with COMCE Sur and AEM (Asociación de Empresarios Mexicanos) was a highlight, exploring avenues to bolster economic growth in Mexico. Topics ranged from trade opportunities and entrepreneurial support to collaborative networking and future projects.
PEDC’s collaboration with McAllen and UTRGV (University of Texas Rio Grande Valley) reinforced regional economic integration. The signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI) between COMCE Nacional and UTRGV for a customized program connecting COMCE members to UTRGV’s Entrepreneur and Commercialization Center in Brownsville illustrated a commitment to fostering educational and economic ties, which will ultimately benefit the Pharr Global Business Hub.
The 2024 National Convention of COMCE culminated in strengthened relationships, formal agreements, and expanded trade opportunities for the Pharr Economic Development Corporation and its partners. PEDC showcased its dedication to development growth, building synergies, and driving economic progress across borders by engaging with industry leaders, government officials, and international representatives.
“Through every connection and agreement, our aim is clear: to highlight Pharr as an economic powerhouse and a thriving hub for trade and innovation,” concluded Perez. “We are proud to work tirelessly toward this vision, building a network of opportunities that spans regions and industries.”
The convention exemplifies Pharr EDC’s ongoing mission to build bridges of collaboration and promote Pharr, Texas, as a gateway for global commerce, ultimately enhancing prosperity for the South Texas region and beyond.
