Ealy: RioPlex is a beacon of binational cooperation and economic excellence

HOUSTON, Texas – Carlos Ealy is assistant secretary of state for Mexican and Border Affairs in the Office of the Texas Secretary of State. 

Ealy spoke at a reception held for the Texas Port to the Stars FDI Summit hosted by RioPlex at the Westin Galleria in Houston. 

The Rio Grande Guardian International News Service has an exclusive video recording of his speech, and, below, his remarks in text format.

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Carlos Ealy’s remarks

Good evening, everyone. It’s a true privilege to stand before you tonight at the Stars Aligned RioPlex networking reception, an evening that brings together visionaries, innovators and leaders from various industries and regions, all united by one common purpose, to establish the Rio Grande Valley as the premier destination for global investment and sustained economic growth. 

The Rio Grande Valley, or as we’re probably branding it, the RioPlex, is not just a point on the map. It is a crossroads of innovation and international collaboration where Texas meets the world and the future of North American trade is being written in real time. 

I want to express my sincere gratitude to our esteemed guests this evening, including key industry stakeholders, foreign trade representatives and government officials. Your presence serves as a powerful testament to our shared commitment.

As we look ahead to tomorrow’s summit, tonight is about connection, about aligning our vision and building the partnerships that will define the next the next chapter of prosperity for this dynamic region. As we gather this evening to exchange ideas and foster relationships, we lay the foundation for a future of success, not only for Texas and Mexico, but for the entire continent. 

There is no question Texas is a major economic giant. For decades, our great state has been the driving force for North America’s growth and competitiveness. With the GDP exceeding $2 trillion, Texas is not just leading nationally or competing globally. In fact, if Texas were a country, it would rank as the eighth largest economy in the world, a testament to the strength, resilience and innovation that defines our economic landscape. 

What truly sets Texas apart as an economic leader is not just the scale of our economy, but its our spirit, our forward looking vision, and our unique ability to forge strong partnerships across industries and borders. 

We’re a state that understands the power of trade, the importance of investment and the value of regional collaboration. And nowhere is that more evident than in the Rio Grande Valley. With over $800 billion in trade between the United States and Mexico, the Rio Grande Valley serves as a critical linchpin in North America’s economic engine, fueling key industries of the future, including advanced manufacturing, aerospace, energy, logistics and technology. This region is more than just Texas’ southern gateway. It is North America’s commercial artery, seamlessly connecting supply chains, industries and markets in ways that propel economic progress across the entire continent. 

So why is the Rio Grande Valley such an attractive destination for investment? First its strategic location. The Rio Grande Valley is anchored by a network of international bridges, deep water, seaports, major highways and robust rail systems, making it one of the most advanced and integrated infrastructure networks in the country. This region serves as a natural hub for cross border trade and global connectivity. In fact, in 2024 alone, 75 cents of every dollar in US-Mexico trade passed through a Texas border crossing, many of which are located in the Rio Grande Valley. 

Second, it’s unwavering commitment to innovation. The Rio Grande Valley has evolved from a regional market into a thriving business hub. From SpaceX’s groundbreaking operations in Boca Chica to advanced manufacturing facilities in McAllen and Brownsville, this region, this region, is not just keeping pace, it’s leading the charge in cutting edge industries and redefining what is possible. 

Third, its exceptionally business friendly environment. Texas consistently ranks No. 1 in the nation for foreign direct investment, attracting more corporate expansion projects than any other state. Over the past five years alone, 176 companies have relocated their headquarters to Texas, contributing to a surge that has increased the state’s number of Fortune 500 companies to 54. 

This momentum is no accident. It is a result of business friendly policies, a competitive tax structure and an unwavering commitment to infrastructure investment. Together, these advantages make the Rio Grande Valley a prime location for companies seeking to grow, transform and lead.

And finally, the most valuable asset: its people. The Rio Grande Valley is home to a diverse, highly skilled and bilingual workforce that serves as a vital bridge between the United States and Mexico. This unique talent pool ensures that businesses investing here not only have the expertise that can be but also have a cultural fluency to thrive in a global marketplace.

As we stand on the threshold of a historic opportunity the question is no longer whether the RioPlex will lead. It is about how far we can go together. That’s what makes tonight so significant. This evening, vision meets opportunity, and together, we are laying the foundation for a more connected, competitive and prosperous North American economy, with the Rio Grande Valley at its heart.

The Rio Plex initiative embodies a strategic vision, one that recognizes that economic development does not stop at the border. It represents an integrated, binational ecosystem, driven by entrepreneurship, supported by infrastructure and powered by innovation. Most importantly, each of you in this room tonight play a vital role in bringing that vision to life. That’s also why tomorrow’s summit, the RGV Rio Plex Texas Port to the Stars FDI Summit is so critical. It represents the next step in shaping the region’s economic future. Throughout the day, we will explore emerging trends in investment, trade and investment in trade, and engage in meaningful conversations on infrastructure, logistics and industry, as well as spotlight the innovations that will define the next chapter of our shared prosperity. But again, tonight is about developing the relationships that will form that future. I encourage each of you to connect and discover common ground, because when we combine our strengths, we don’t just compete, we lead. 

As Assistant Secretary of State for Mexican and border affairs, my mission is to strengthen these ties, facilitate strategic partnerships, and ensure that Texas continues to lead globally. I’ve had the unique privilege of witnessing the remarkable momentum taking shape across this vibrant region where commerce, culture and collaboration converge. The stars have indeed aligned for the Rio Grande Valley, not just in name, but in opportunity as well. Texas, and especially the Rio Grande Valley, is open for business. We possess the talent, resources and vision to position the RioPlex as a beacon of binational cooperation and economic excellence. 

However, success does not happen by chance. It is a result of bold ideas, meaningful alliances and decisive action. As we enjoyed tonight’s networking and look ahead to tomorrow’s event, I invite each of you to consider the part you can play in shaping the future of this extraordinary region. Together, we have the chance to make the Rio Grande Valley a shining example of what is possible when business, government and innovation come together with purpose. 

I look forward to the conversations ahead, to forging new partnerships and to working alongside each of you to accelerate the RioPlex’s rise as a cornerstone of North American prosperity. Thank you for your dedication to this region. Thank you for believing in its future, and thank you for your unwavering commitment to success. 

Your presence here tonight sends a clear message: the Rio Grande Valley is prepared to claim its place as a key economic force in the global economy. Let’s seize this moment. Let’s turn potential into progress, and let’s build the future of the RioPlex together. Thank you and enjoy the evening.

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