Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book provides a comprehensive examination of policy actions that emigrant-sending states and regions in Mexico could take to enhance their development and thereby reduce economic pressures to emigrate. It argues that the viability of small rural industries can be enhanced by providing them with specialized support services, relatively easy access to credit, and the cooperative purchase of inputs and marketing of outputs. The book shows that the promise of the maquiladoras extends beyond their demonstrated capacity to bring in billions of dollars in foreign exchange and create hundreds of thousands of jobs. It examines the export potential of Mexico for many commodities traded in international markets. The book reviews how different Mexican administrations have viewed undocumented immigration to the United States.