Manufacturing software and researching AI in Mexico is possible, but complex

Velda Abigail Gámez Bustamante, director of Entry at the School of Social Sciences and Government at Tec de Monterrey, points out that one of the main problems in promoting a more digital culture in the country is talent, since demand exceeds supply.

“Companies in general need many professionals specialized in IT, but profiles are also required to regulate and generate public policies that promote this type of programs,” said Gámez.

IDC estimates that by 2023, Latin America will need 225,000 AI specialists, reflecting the growing demand in this area, and Mexico has a key role due to its geographical proximity to the United States and its growing number of technology graduates (around 12,000 per year). However, it still faces difficulties in filling these vacancies due to a lack of specialized talent, which limits its ability to become a leading AI hub.

Furthermore, another factor that can work against it is training so that this talent can later go to other roles. “There is an issue in the issue of instructing and having talent specialized in AI or Cybersecurity, because if it is done from public institutions and government it is possible that this talent will be stolen by companies, who also look for this type of profiles, so do not “We only have to overcome the lack of specialists, also of capital,” said Ivonne Múñoz, a lawyer specialized in IT and an expert in cybersecurity.

Although there is no exact number of IT or AI professionals active in the country, it is estimated that the cybersecurity gap is particularly critical. By 2025, Mexico will need about 35,000 cybersecurity specialists, a figure that highlights the current shortage in this sector. In fact, 65% of Mexican organizations report a significant lack of qualified personnel to meet these needs.