The country has had a complicated relationship with foreign land ownership since Spanish colonization in 1517. Even after gaining independence in 1822, much of Mexico’s land was controlled by foreign powers, elites, and the Church.

The Mexican Revolution in 1917 led to a new constitution that restricted foreign land ownership, especially near borders and coastlines, as a protective measure.

It wasn’t until the 1930s that land began to be returned to the Mexican people. President Lazaro Cardenas broke down large property holdings and created “Ejidos,” or cooperative farms. These lands were government-owned but allowed people to farm and profit from them.

Significant changes came in 1992, when laws were amended to enable the sale or lease of these Ejido lands, marking a shift towards privatization.

In 1994, a constitutional amendment allowed foreigners to buy land within the previously “restricted zones” through a trust system known as “Fideicomiso.” In this setup, a Mexican bank acts as a trustee, holding the land on behalf of the foreign beneficiary.

This arrangement grants foreigners almost all the rights of full ownership, and it’s not a lease as often misunderstood.

For those interested in investing in Mexico, the country offers favorable conditions. Since the 1980s, Mexico has liberalized its economy, becoming a part of global trade agreements and encouraging foreign investment in various sectors.

The current policies even allow foreigners to own up to 100% of certain types of businesses. These shifts, along with factors like low labor costs and proximity to major markets, make Mexico an attractive investment destination.