Tongling Mexico Breaks Ground on New Irapuato Plant

Tongling Mexico has begun construction of its new manufacturing plant in the Marabis Castro del Río Industrial Park in Irapuato, backed by an investment of more than US$91 million. The project, planned in two phases set to begin operations in 2027 and 2029, is expected to generate between 460 and 540 direct jobs.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, Tongling CEO Yonghuai Yu highlighted that the new facility marks a significant milestone for the company and responds to the growth of the North American market and the ongoing reconfiguration of global supply chains. He noted that Tongling—founded in 2007 and specialized in automotive interiors—has become an international reference for technical innovation and manufacturing capacity.

Yu explained that the Irapuato plant will serve as a comprehensive hub for research, production, and sales of door panels, dashboards, and other components. He added that the facility will comply with Mexican regulations and is expected to be completed within approximately 12 months.

David Pascual, director of Marabis Industrial Park, emphasized that Castro del Río has emerged as one of the main destinations for Chinese investment in Mexico. He pointed out that Tongling arrives amid a complex global landscape in which Asian companies are accelerating their expansion into North America to maintain competitiveness.

Pascual added that the park continues to strengthen its infrastructure—expanding electric, gas and water systems, developing new industrial buildings, and advancing housing projects for expatriates.

Irapuato Mayor Lorena Alfaro García stated that Tongling’s arrival reaffirms the municipality’s strength as an industrial hub. She emphasized that the investment of more than US$91 million reflects foreign investors’ confidence and credited local talent, connectivity, and academic partnerships as key elements in attracting new projects. The new plant, she said, will boost the automotive sector and create opportunities for nearby communities.

Representing Guanajuato Governor Libia Dennise García, state official Francisco Aguilar noted that Tongling’s installation reinforces the state’s leadership in attracting investment. He highlighted that the company supplies global manufacturers such as Volkswagen and General Motors, and stressed that creating formal, high-quality jobs remains a priority for the state. Aguilar added that the administration has secured 41 investment projects over the past year totaling more than US$3 billion, with China ranking among Guanajuato’s most important economic partners.