The perception of corruption is a critical issue that deeply affects the business climate in Mexico, as highlighted by the World Economic Forum, which identifies corruption as the most problematic factor for doing business. This perception leads to increased operational costs, with estimates suggesting a rise of up to 10%. The ongoing struggle against corruption presents a significant hurdle for the Mexican government as it aims to attract quality, long-term investments and realize economic growth and well-being for its citizens.

The recently released Corruption Perception Index (CPI) 2025 by Transparency International paints a troubling picture for Mexico, as it scores 27 out of 100, placing the country 141st out of 182 nations assessed. Although this marks a slight improvement from the previous year (a one-point increase), it still reflects alarming levels of corruption that remain a barrier to economic development. The comparison within the Latin American region further emphasizes Mexico's situation, as the regional average score stands at 42, positioning Mexico among the lowest-rated countries in terms of corruption perception.

Tackling corruption is not just about improving the rankings in international indexes; it is linked to the broader objective of fostering a conducive environment for business and investment. For Mexico to achieve favorable investment conditions and sustainable growth, addressing corruption effectively is imperative. The implications of this challenge extend beyond economic metrics, affecting the overall trust in government institutions and citizen confidence in the nation's governance. The path forward requires not only policies aimed at reducing corruption but also a commitment to transparency and accountability at every level of government.