With 200 companies and a 23% increase in visitors, the fourth edition of GreenTech Americas last week drew attention in Queretaro, Mexico - and we have the pictures to prove it. Many exhibitors and visitors were impressed by the high energy level and the developments in the Mexican industry.
Click here for the photo report.
Mexican market
Ninety-five percent of vegetable consumption in the United States relies on imports from Mexico, while only 5% is produced domestically. Major Mexican companies, such as Native Suit and Finka, attract investors from the United States.
However, the sector still grapples with issues such as viruses and poor maintenance, resulting in underperforming greenhouses. This is one of the reasons why knowledge development is a focus of many parties present at the show. The government collaborates with Dutch companies and local universities to educate people.
Substrates help water
Mexico faces serious challenges regarding water quality, severe drought, and depletion of water sources. The water levels have significantly dropped, leading to increasing problems, particularly in cities like Mexico City where major issues are expected this summer. This is one of the reasons why over the years, the use of substrates has grown in the Mexican industry. Currently Mexico plays a significant role in the Latin American substrate market, accounting for 50% of its share.
Workers housing
Another issue arises with housing for workers who come from afar, something that only became more urgent due to the upscaling of the average greenhouse size. These workers often need to stay near the companies during the week, but available accommodation is currently often inadequate. Additionally, employees at large companies experience long working hours, leading to family problems and an increase in obesity due to the lack of healthy meals. It's a situation the industry needs to answer to.
Mexican companies are awaiting the elections in the United States, as their outcome could affect prices. In the event of Trump's re-election, prices could rise, which could particularly harm small local businesses. Fluctuations in the peso already have a significant impact on the market, as workers paid in dollars need to exchange money, resulting in nearly a 20% loss of their income.
All in all, there is enough to learn, discuss, see, and eat, and it's understandable why, in only 4 editions, and despite a challenging start in the middle of the pandemic, GreenTech Americas grew out to be an important technical event for the American greenhouse industry. Slightly inconvenient, the show this year took place in the same week as the Indoor AgCon, another important event for the North American horticultural industry, but we're happy to share next years the events do not interfere.