The auto parts industry in Aguascalientes is facing difficult times due to a strike in the United States involving automotive giants General Motors, Ford and Stellantis (formerly Fiat and Chrysler). This situation threatens to significantly affect production and employment in the region, as admitted by the Secretary General of the FTA Automotive and Metalworking Industry Union, Rogelio Padilla de León.
Padilla de León explained that the strike in the United States caused a domino effect among auto suppliers in Aguascalientes. He noted that many companies in the region are dedicated to producing automotive components for American automakers that are currently on strike. This commercial interdependence has led to the paralysis of some production lines and fears of significant economic impact.
He explained that the duration of the strike in the United States remains unknown, causing great concern among workers and businessmen in Aguascalientes. “For how long? “We don’t know, but we have already experienced a technical shutdown on some production lines,” he said.
So far, around 280 workers in two local companies have been affected by the technical shutdown. However, this number is expected to rise if the situation does not improve soon and more companies are forced to take similar measures.
The Secretary General revealed that between 30 and 35 companies in Aguascalientes export their auto parts to the United States and have a diverse customer portfolio that includes the main American automakers. He pointed out that some companies have dedicated up to 80% of their production to Nissan Mexicana, which makes them relatively safe from the current situation. However, those who make specialty auto parts for Ford, GM and Chrysler face significant production disruptions.
Finally, he emphasized that the situation is far from resolved. The American union United Auto Workers (UAW) has said it has sufficient funds to pay the salaries of its members during the three-month strike. This statement raises uncertainty about a timely resolution of the conflict and suggests that the strike could be extended, which would worsen the situation for businesses in Aguascalientes.
