Article by Matthew Hilgendorf, Matthew Dugan
07/03/2008

Project Opportunities
Recent approval has been given to plans for two sewage treatment projects, “Agua Prieta” and “El Ahogado” in the state of Jalisco at a total cost estimated to approach $300 million dollars. The projects’ requirements specify that each plant be able to treat over 10 thousand liters per second. Once competed, the new plants will significantly improve the water supply of over four million people. The projects are also expected to bring significant overall environmental improvements to the areas particularly by reducing pollution in the Santiago River. A tender solicitation for the construction of the plants via the National Infrastructure Program is currently underway. The U.S. Commercial Service believes there to be opportunity for the involvement of U.S. businesses in three areas: the design, construction, and operation of the two plants. Additionally, a significantly smaller plant was recently approved for San Luis Potosí at an estimated cost of 30 million dollars.

A Desalination Plant has been approved for Baja California with 35 million dollars in funds set aside. The plant will be required to process 250 liters of salt water per second and will serve as another part of the government’s nationwide push to increase its access to secure and dependable supplies of potable water for its citizens. The Mexican government also plans to spend 63 million dollars in overall repairs and modernization of water utility networks and their management systems in areas such as Alcantarillado, Saneamiento, and San Luis Potosí.

The Commercial Service Mexico encourages U.S. companies in the waste treatment, water purification and utilities management industries to learn more about these business opportunities, including developing an agent or representative agreement with a Mexican firm with previous experience in this type of projects. The Commercial Service is available to assist U.S. companies interested in participating in this industry by providing background information, counseling, and introductions to prospective Mexican partners.

For More Information
The U.S. Commercial Service in Mexico City can be contacted via e-mail at: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , Phone: 011-52-55-5140-2640; Fax: 011-52-55-5566-1111 or visit our website: http://www.buyusa.gov/mexico/en/.

The U.S. Commercial Service — Your Global Business Partner
With its network of offices across the United States and in more than 80 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://www.export.gov/.

Disclaimer:
The information provided in this report is intended to be of assistance to U.S. exporters. While we make every effort to ensure its accuracy, neither the United States government nor any of its employees make any representation as to the accuracy or completeness of information in this or any other United States government document. Readers are advised to independently verify any information prior to reliance thereon. The information provided in this report does not constitute legal advice. International copyright, U.S. Department of Commerce, 2008. All rights reserved outside of the United States.