This study explores the anticipated transformations in Mexico’s higher education system as a response to the economic and technological shifts driven by trade tensions between the United States (US) and China. The research identifies strategies to bolster Mexico’s global competitiveness through education and science, focusing on reducing dependency on key imports—particularly from China—and promoting the development of advanced technologies. The primary objective of this analysis is to propose actionable measures to address the challenges posed by these trade tensions while leveraging the opportunities they present. Using a documentary research approach, the study examines a range of sources, including reports, case studies, and academic literature, with a particular focus on the automotive industry [1]. Comparative analyses of successful strategies in other countries, such as technology transfer, educational innovation, and talent development [2], provide a framework for recommendations. The study highlights several challenges: a) dependence on Chinese Imports: technologies like electric vehicles underscore the need for Mexico to enhance its technological capabilities, as the automotive sector represents 40% of its manufacturing exports to the US, b) barriers to Nearshoring: Mexico’s limitations in logistics, energy, and security hinder its ability to attract investment despite the reconfiguration of global supply chains, c) talent shortages: a lack of professionals in STEM fields, combined with a brain drain, exacerbates the country’s inability to meet industrial demands. To address these issues, the study offers the following recommendations: a) leverage science and technology for social and economic development: use innovation to tackle national challenges and reduce reliance on imports, b) develop competitive technologies: establish research programs and public-private partnerships to innovate in strategic sectors like automotive, renewable sources of energy, and digitalization, c) strengthen International collaboration: negotiate agreements for technology transfer and integrate best practices from global models, d) reform education: enhance STEM education, decentralize governance, and align curricula with industrial needs to develop a workforce equipped for emerging technologies. Substituting imports and fostering technological capability will enable the country to adapt to a protectionist global trade environment. Moreover, nearshoring opportunities, coupled with the development of advanced supply chains, position Mexico as a critical player in the evolving economic landscape. The study concludes that higher education is not only a foundation for social progress but also a strategic tool for ensuring economic resilience and competitiveness. Comprehensive educational reforms, aligned with industrial demands and global trends, are essential to navigate the ongoing challenges posed by the United States-China trade war.
[1] I. Romero and J. A. López, Nearshoring in Mexico: Seizing Opportunities and Facing Challenges, 16 July, 2024, Accessed 1 December, 2024. Retrieved from https://www.bakerinstitute.org/research/nearshoring-mexico-seizing-opportunities-and-facing-challenges.
[2] Korn Ferry, Future of work: The global talent crunch, 2018, Accessed 1 December, 2024. Retrieved from https://www.kornferry.com/content/dam/kornferry/docs/pdfs/KF-Future-of-Work-Talent-Crunch-Report.pdf

Keywords: Education, innovation, global competition, China, Mexico, US.