Mexico | Water Out of Reach: Trends in Use and Availability

Summary

This document analyzes water consumption trends both globally and in Mexico, highlighting the current drought and storage levels in the country’s main reservoirs. It also summarizes the key components of the proposed National Water Plan aimed at addressing the growing water scarcity in the country.

Key points

• Key points:
• Mexico ranks 26th among countries with the highest levels of water stress. In terms of progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 6 (focused on sustainable water management), the country reached 69.9% in 2023, below the Latin America and Caribbean average of 72.6%.
• As of March 31, 2025, the main reservoirs in the country reported an average storage level of 56.5%, while the Cutzamala System reservoirs were at 53.3% capacity. Both figures are above the critical levels recorded in 2024, though they follow a downward trend observed over the past decade.
• In November 2024, the administration led by President Claudia Sheinbaum presented the key points of the 2024–2030 National Water Plan. The plan highlights investments in irrigation districts, infrastructure works, and river sanitation projects, although challenges remain regarding adequate budget allocation to the sector.
• Alongside infrastructure investment, the National Water Plan also underscores the need to strengthen the capacity of local water and sanitation agencies—particularly in areas such as revenue collection efficiency, tariff harmonization, and interinstitutional coordination.

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