Generational Shift Strengthens San Antonio-Mexico Economic Bond
A Flourishing Trade Relationship
San Antonio and Mexico are witnessing an important transformation in their bilateral economic ties, thanks to the vibrant participation of a new generation of young professionals. This generational shift is predominantly marked by the spirited leadership of Victor Reyna, the current president of the US – Mexico Business Association (AEM).
Role of US – Mexico Business Association (AEM)
Established in 1996 in San Antonio, the US – MX Business Association, now known nationwide with various chapters, is boosting trade dynamics between the United States and Mexico. According to the Census Bureau data, Mexico surpassed China in 2023 to become the largest trading partner of the United States, with a staggering trade volume of $798 billion.
Reyna, who is also the vice president of business banking at Amegy Bank, symbolizes the thriving cross-border economic interactions between San Antonio and Northern Mexico. To endorse its dedication towards its local community, Amegy Bank has recently announced the relocation of its Central Texas headquarters to downtown San Antonio.
Reyna’s Personal Journey
Reyna’s journey from Monterrey, Nuevo León to San Antonio further cultivates the deep-rooted economic and cultural connections between the two regions. Born in Monterrey, Reyna’s family moved to San Antonio to earn dual citizenship and gain English fluency. He later returned to San Antonio and enrolled at the University of the Incarnate Word, sensing a greater scope of opportunities in the American education system.
Today, serving as the president of AEM’s San Antonio chapter, Reyna is fervently collaborating with all stakeholders of the local business ecosystem, including Sebastián Garzón, executive director at Alamo Angels, and Ileana Gonzalez, a seasoned player in the San Antonio tech startup community.
Paving the Way for Future Ties
The AEM has recently visited Monterrey’s business ecosystem and is planning a trip to Guadalajara this month, promoting further trade relations. Reyna has expressed his excitement on these trips by stating the vast resources and potential that these regions offer. He believes that the momentum that was created in Monterrey will now resonate in Guadalajara.
The ever-evolving connection between Northern Mexico and San Antonio in the automobile industry is a prime example of the robust trade relationship being forged. Toyota’s trucks and SUV chassis are built in Mexico, and they arrive in San Antonio to be transformed into Tundras and Sequoias. With the establishment of Tesla’s Gigafactory in Austin and Monterrey, it is expected that this corridor of advanced manufacturing will witness exponential growth.
This reinvigorated relationship between San Antonio and Mexico, fueled by young professionals’ dynamic leadership, is set to make remarkable strides in the coming years. Victor Reyna’s journey offers a glimpse of how cross-border trade can prosper through committed individuals and organizations like the AEM, fostering a promising culture of international understanding and trade growth.
