Country Profile: Mexico
Mexico, located in North America, boasts a diverse geography with mountainous terrains, coastal plains, and significant natural resources including petroleum and minerals. Home to approximately 130.7 million people, its population exhibits a rich tapestry of ethnicities, primarily Mestizo and Indigenous groups. Economically, Mexico is characterized as an upper-middle-income country, closely intertwined with the United States through trade. Governed as a federal presidential republic, Mexico has seen recent political shifts, with the current presidency held by Claudia Sheinbaum since October 2024.
Geography
Mexico is situated in North America, bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the southeast and the North Pacific Ocean to the west, with land boundaries that include the United States to the north, Belize, and Guatemala. The country's area totals 1,964,375 sq km, which is nearly three times the size of Texas, featuring a mix of high mountains, low coastal plains, and deserts.
- Coastline: 9,330 km
- Highest Point: Volcan Pico de Orizaba at 5,636 m
- Major Lakes: Laguna de Chapala (1,140 sq km) and Laguna de Terminos (1,550 sq km)
- Natural Hazards: Includes tsunamis, volcanoes, and earthquakes
People and Society
With a projected population of 130,739,927 in 2024, Mexico's society is primarily composed of 62% Mestizo, followed by Indigenous and other ethnic groups. Spanish is the predominant language, spoken by 93.8% of the population, while Catholicism remains the leading religion at 77.7%.
- Urbanization Rate: 81.6% of the population resides in urban areas
- Median Age: 31 years
- Life Expectancy: 74.6 years (2024 est.)
- Literacy Rate: 95% (2020 est.)
Economy
Mexico's economy is classified as an upper-middle-income economy, heavily reliant on trade with the U.S. and characterized by industrial and agricultural sectors. The GDP (PPP) is estimated at $2.883 trillion for 2024, with a GDP per capita of $22,000.
- Unemployment Rate: 2.8% (2024 est.)
- Poverty Rate: 36.3% of the population lives below the poverty line (2022 est.)
- Main Industries: Include food and beverages, textiles, and motor vehicles
- Exports: $680.798 billion (2024 est.), primarily to the USA (76% of total exports)
Government
Mexico operates as a federal presidential republic with a constitution that dates back to 1917. The government structure includes an elected president, Claudia Sheinbaum, and a bicameral Congress.
- Number of States: 32
- Suffrage Age: 18 years
- Recent Election: Claudia Sheinbaum elected president on 2 June 2024
Military and Security
The Mexican Armed Forces comprise the army, air force, and navy, focusing on national defense and internal security, particularly against drug trafficking.
- Active Duty Personnel: Approximately 260,000
- Military Expenditures: 0.9% of GDP (2024 est.)
- National Guard: Formed in 2019 to enhance internal security
Energy
Mexico’s energy sector is primarily fossil fuel-based, with electricity access at 100% for the population. Total installed generating capacity is estimated at 105.586 million kW as of 2023.
- Electricity Consumption: 332.042 billion kWh (2023 est.)
- Petroleum Production: 2.101 million bbl/day (2023 est.)
- Natural Gas Consumption: 97.118 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
Environment
Mexico faces several environmental challenges, including water pollution, deforestation, and urban air pollution. The government recognizes clean water access and deforestation as national security issues.
- Total Water Resources: 461.888 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
- Carbon Dioxide Emissions: 441.049 million metric tonnes (2023 est.)
- Recycling Rate: 9.6% of municipal solid waste (2022 est.)
Transportation
Mexico features a well-developed transportation network including extensive railways and highways, along with numerous airports.
- Total Airports: 1,580 (2025)
- Railways: 23,389 km of standard gauge
- Merchant Marine: 674 vessels (2023)
Communications
The telecommunications sector in Mexico has undergone significant reforms, enhancing access to services.
- Internet Users: 81% of the population (2023 est.)
- Mobile Cellular Subscriptions: 140 million (2023 est.)
- Fixed-line Subscriptions: 25.637 million (2023 est.)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 130.7 million | 2024 estimate |
| Area | 1,964,375 sq km | Total area |
| GDP (PPP) | $2.883 trillion | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.8% | 2024 estimate |
| Energy Consumption | 57.539 million Btu/person | 2023 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 14.73 births/1,000 population | 2025 estimate |
| Life Expectancy | 74.6 years | 2024 estimate |
| Literacy Rate | 95% | 2020 estimate |
| Urban Population | 81.6% | 2023 |
| Total Fertility Rate | 1.85 children born/woman | 2025 estimate |
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