"Colombia at the Crossroads: Learning from Mexico to Boost Its Industrialization"

In recent decades, the industrialization of Mexico has been a phenomenon worthy of study and admiration, thanks to the conjunction of four fundamental elements: an abundant labor force, robust institutions, access to international markets, and, crucially, an efficient and economical energy infrastructure. This model has enabled the country to become a strategic partner for the United States, which in turn has generated a virtuous circle of economic development. However, in light of these lessons, Colombia finds itself at a crossroads that could define its economic future. With approximately 17 million people in underemployment, Colombia possesses the human potential necessary to replicate the Mexican experience. Despite having institutions that, while needing improvements, are considered serious and stable, the country faces the challenge of attracting foreign investment that can boost its economy. This aspect is vital for transforming the labor force into a sustainable and equitable growth engine. One of the key elements that has allowed Mexico to take off has been its ability to generate and distribute cheap energy throughout its territory. In this regard, Colombia has an invaluable natural resource beneath its soil: potential gas reserves located in the "energy heart of Colombia," which extends across departments such as Santander, Antioquia, Caldas, and other regions of Magdalena Medio. These reserves are estimated to offer up to 20 trillion cubic feet of gas, which would ensure energy supply for millions of families and could be the foundation for robust industrialization. However, the exploitation of these resources is not without controversy. Currently, the Colombian government, under the administration of Gustavo Petro, has shown resistance to the extraction of this gas due to the technique of fracking, which has been successfully used in other countries, such as the United States and Argentina. This stance has sparked an intense debate about the need to balance environmental concerns with the urgent necessity for economic development and job creation. The cost of energy in Colombia is significantly higher than in Mexico, affecting the country's competitiveness in the global market. While the average electricity price in Mexico hovers around $44 per kilowatt-hour, in Colombia, this price rises to $68. This difference is largely due to bureaucracy in obtaining environmental permits and the lack of an efficient system that facilitates the production and distribution of energy. In addition to energy, transportation is another critical factor for competitiveness. Many Colombian industries are located far from ports, which increases logistics costs and decreases export capacity. The decision to tax fuels, rather than promote their use, is an obstacle that hinders the competitiveness of the manufacturing and agro-industrial sectors. Removing these taxes could be an effective strategy to revive these sectors and facilitate access to international markets. Therefore, it is essential for Colombia to prioritize the exploitation of its "energy heart." Responsible gas extraction, combined with policies that reduce the tax burden on fuels and promote the development of transportation infrastructure, could transform the country into an attractive destination for global investors. This would not only benefit the economy but could also provide job opportunities for millions of Colombians. The story of Mexico is a clear reminder that industrialization is not just the result of fortune, but of strategic decisions that combine human, institutional, and natural resources. Colombia has the opportunity to learn from these lessons and implement policies that allow for sustainable and competitive development in the global context. It is imperative to open a constructive dialogue that includes all sectors of Colombian society, from the government to local communities, to ensure that the exploitation of natural resources is carried out responsibly and beneficially for all. In this way, Colombia will not only avoid falling behind in the race for development but will position itself as a benchmark in the region, capable of attracting investments and generating quality employment. The possibility of becoming the "Mexico of Mexico" is not an unreachable dream, but it requires decisive action and a forward-looking vision. The time to act is now, and the future of 17 million workers and millions of families depends on brave and well-founded decisions. It is time for Colombia to start harnessing the energy it needs to thrive.