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The Strategic Role of Mexican Labor under NAFTA: Critical Perspectives on Current Economic Integration

Author

Listed:
  • RaúL Delgado Wise

    (Doctoral Program in Development Studies at the Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas (Mexico); International Network on Migration and Development)

  • James M. Cypher

    (Doctoral Program in Development Studies at the Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas (Mexico))

Abstract

This article aims to reveal the precise meaning of Mexico's export platform by focusing on maquiladoras and the disguised maquila industry. In both sectors, imported components account for 75 to 90 percent of export value. As a result, benefits for the Mexican economy are basically restricted to wages, that is, the value of the labor incorporated into the exports. The authors argue that what is actually taking place is the disembodied exportation of labor or, alternatively, that the workforce is being exported without requiring Mexican workers to leave the country. The authors thus demystify the purported orientation of Mexican exports toward high-value-added manufactured goods and reveal the regressive movement of the export platform.

Suggested Citation

  • RaúL Delgado Wise & James M. Cypher, 2007. "The Strategic Role of Mexican Labor under NAFTA: Critical Perspectives on Current Economic Integration," The ANNALS of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, , vol. 610(1), pages 119-142, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:anname:v:610:y:2007:i:1:p:119-142
    DOI: 10.1177/0002716206297527
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    References listed on IDEAS

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