Phoenix looking to open Mexico City office

Phoenix economic development leaders want to open a trade, investment and tourism office in Mexico City early next year. They will ask council members to approve a plan that could involve spending up to $200,000 to hire a Mexico City firm with connections and experience to help run the office.

It’s a big part of a developing plan by Phoenix to forge a long-term economic partnership with Mexico. Last year, Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton created a task force to help the city strengthen economic ties with Mexico. In addition to the Mexico City office, the group recommends:

• Partnering with Universidad Nacional Autonama de Mexico (UNAM) to open a Phoenix campus.

• Exploring options for establishing a Mexican Cultural Center in Phoenix.

• Continuing to build upon trade missions.

According to a report to be presented to the city council this week, Arizona and greater Phoenix rank below other competing markets in terms cross border flow, bilateral trade and director foreign investment.