María Teresa Babún Makes History as First Female President of CANACINTRA Mexicali, Outlines Growth Strategy

-Editorial 

The National Chamber of the Transformation Industry (CANACINTRA) in Mexicali formally installed its new board of directors for the 2026-2027 term, with María Teresa Babún Villarreal taking office as president during a ceremony attended by business leaders and government officials from the municipal, state, and federal levels.

Babún Villarreal succeeds outgoing president Francisco Fuentes Aréstegui and will lead the organization during a period marked by shifting global economic conditions and regional development opportunities.

In her inaugural remarks, Babún Villarreal emphasized the chamber’s long-term strategic vision, highlighting priorities such as renewable energy development, sustainable use of natural resources, and the promotion of key infrastructure projects to attract investment and generate new business.

“We are a chamber with a vision for the future, committed to renewable energy, the responsible use of our natural resources, and strategic infrastructure projects that drive new business and strengthen Mexicali’s economic development,” she said.

Among the projects referenced was the proposed Mexicali International Business and Convention Center. Babún Villarreal said results from a recently completed feasibility study are expected to be released in the near future, which could help define the scope and viability of the initiative.

She also underscored the importance of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), describing them as a central component of both CANACINTRA’s structure and Mexico’s broader economy. According to Babún Villarreal, MSMEs represent approximately 90% of the chamber’s membership and contribute about 80% of the country’s tax base.

The new president said the organization will continue to strengthen collaboration with young industrial leaders, recognizing their role in driving innovation and shaping the region’s economic future. She added that expanding CANACINTRA’s membership will be a priority, with an emphasis on increasing participation, incorporating new perspectives, and building a more representative and inclusive organization.

The newly installed board includes Abel Graciano Aguayo as secretary and Brenda Carolina Félix Esquivel as treasurer. Vice presidents appointed for the term are Rubén Corral Bay, Martín Cueva Cano, Edwviges Pío Rodríguez, Verónica Bermúdez Ramos, Velia Zavala Martínez, Héctor Barragán Benítez, Andrés Daniel Ruelas Martínez, Miguel Ángel Bravo Jardón, José Manuel Sánchez Palacios, Humberto Luna Rodríguez, Blanca Julia Leyva Varela, Alejandro Vázquez Valadez, Ricardo Wancho Nevárez, Pedro Rosas Nava, and Luis Martínez Moreno.