President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed plan to deport millions of undocumented immigrants from the United States could severely undermine Mexico’s economic stability, according to Ismael Plascencia López, an economist with the Federation of Economists of Northwest Mexico.
In his analysis, Plascencia López emphasized the profound challenges that such large-scale deportations would pose for Mexico.
“The idea of deporting 11 to 13 million undocumented immigrants currently residing in the United States seems like an unattainable goal,” he told WSAV News3. “However, even if only one or two million are deported, it would still deliver a significant blow to Mexico’s economic framework.”
The economist pointed out that even a partial implementation of mass deportations would force Mexico to allocate considerable financial resources to assist deported individuals. These funds would be required to address their immediate needs, including housing, food, and transportation. Adding to the burden, he noted that individuals deported from other nations could also become stranded in Mexico if their home countries refused to accept their return.
“The sheer number of deportees will create enormous pressure, but we must also consider the complications arising from countries unwilling to repatriate their nationals. Many of these individuals will likely remain in Mexico, and their care will inevitably fall on us,” Plascencia López explained.
Another critical concern raised by Plascencia López is the potential reduction in remittances—financial transfers sent by migrants working in the U.S.—which are a cornerstone of the Mexican economy.
According to data from Banxico, Mexico’s central bank, U.S.-based migrants sent $63.3 billion in remittances to Mexico in 2023, and nearly $55 billion had been transferred by October 2024.
“The most significant impact will stem from the reduction in these cash transfers from migrants employed in the United States,” Plascencia López observed.
He also linked Trump’s proposals to a growing global trend targeting migrants. “This forms part of a larger international movement to expel migrants, led in this case by President-elect Donald Trump,” he noted.
Plascencia López expressed heightened concern about Trump’s increased political power during his second term. With control of both Congress and the Senate, Trump’s administration faces minimal opposition to implementing stringent immigration policies.
“Extremes still persist,” Plascencia López remarked. “While some are celebrating Donald Trump’s victory, there used to be mechanisms to oppose his initiatives. Now, with control of both chambers, resistance seems futile. Mexico will bear the brunt of these policies.”
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