CloudHQ Invests in Queretaro / Government to Pay CANIFARMA Debts

CloudHQ Announces Investment in Queretaro. CloudHQ, one of the world’s largest data center developers, announced a US$4.8 billion investment in Queretaro to build a mega-campus with six advanced facilities dedicated to cloud services and AI. The project is expected to generate 7,200 jobs in construction and 900 permanent high-skilled positions.

According to Marcelo Ebrard, Minister of Economy the project represents a major milestone for Mexico’s digital infrastructure. “We are building the highway that will power the new AI-driven economy,” he said.

Keith Harney, COO, CloudHQ, confirmed that the company has already secured initial energy to power 200MW of the planned 900MW critical IT load. The campus will sit on 52ha, feature a private 900MW substation and a 2GW switching substation, both expected by 2027, ensuring long-term reliability and scalability. “This campus will not only strengthen Mexico’s role in the digital economy but also expand it. We are confident it will become a benchmark for Latin America,” said Harvey.

Each data center will represent roughly US$800 million in construction investment, with over US$250 million in pre-development capital. The project is designed with LEED Gold/Silver sustainability standards, featuring water-free cooling systems, and will create extensive opportunities across the Mexican supply chain and service sectors.

Government to Pay CANIFARMA Debts, Prioritizes Domestic Pharma Production. President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed that the government will settle outstanding debts of MX$14 million owed to members of CANIFARMA, noting there are no obstacles to repayment, including some pending from 2024. She emphasized that while payments will be made, companies that win public bids must still meet delivery timelines.

Sheinbaum explained that many medicines required in Mexico are not produced domestically. India supplies about 80% of the active ingredients used globally, while China is also a major source of medicines and medical supplies. 

Sheinbaum highlighted that future tenders will give preference to manufacturers with facilities in Mexico, even if they produce different types of medicines or medical inputs, as part of the Plan México strategy to strengthen domestic production.

She added that imports are handled either directly by Indian companies or by Mexican firms specializing in pharmaceutical imports, all of which must secure COFEPRIS permits to ensure compliance with Mexico’s health regulations.

Mexico Tightens Oversight of IMMEX Permits Amid Detected Abuses. Ebrard addressed the recent decline in the authorization of IMMEX permits (for manufacturing and export services), explaining that the Ministry is conducting a thorough review of the registry after detecting abuses and irregular practices.

Ebrard emphasized that efficiency is not measured by the number of permits granted but by their proper and transparent use. He dismissed concerns about a lack of staff handling the process, stressing that the issue lies in restoring order and accountability within the program.

Solar Panels Installed in Mexicali. Sheinbaum announced that 4,000 solar panels have been installed in Mexicali to help reduce household electricity bills in one of the hottest regions of Mexico.

She explained that the program provides subsidized panels, allowing residents to lower their energy costs while paying gradually for the system. The initiative ensures that part of the subsidy remains, easing the financial burden during the intense summer months.

Sheinbaum added that the government is working on a second phase to expand the program to other cities across the country.