The Economic Impact of Technological Innovation in Mexico’s Ceramic Industry

Strategic Alternatives to Enhance Sector Competitiveness.

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29105/vtga11.4-1194

Keywords:

Technological innovation, Industrial competitiveness, Ceramic industry

Abstract

This study examines the economic impact of technological innovation in Mexico’s ceramic industry, focusing on its influence on competitiveness. Using a mixed-methods approach (quantitative and qualitative), data was collected from ceramic companies located in Tlaxcala, Aguascalientes, and the State of Mexico. Findings indicate that technologies such as high-efficiency kilns, automated glazing, and ceramic waste reuse have reduced production costs by 15% to 35%, with a return on investment of 2 to 4 years. Structural barriers include limited financing and technical training. The study recommends stronger academia-industry collaboration and public policies that support technological modernization. It concludes that adopting advanced technologies not only increases production efficiency but also improves sustainability and enables firms to compete in international markets. Technological innovation is presented as a strategic tool to enhance productivity, reduce environmental impact, and close the competitiveness gap with countries like Spain, Italy, and China.

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Author Biographies

Jesus Gerardo Cruz-Alvarez, Autonomous University of Nuevo León

A seasoned executive with over two decades of experience in the manufacturing industry, this professional is an Industrial Engineer with advanced academic credentials, including a Master of Science in Engineering (MSc), a Master of Business Administration (MBA), and a Ph.D. in Philosophy from the Autonomous University of Nuevo León (UANL). He has consistently driven business performance improvement through strategic alignment and operational excellence. With deep expertise across the Automotive, Chemical, and HVAC sectors, he has held key leadership roles such as Operations Manager, Quality Manager, Logistics Manager, HR Manager, Plant Manager, Director of Operations, and Regional Division General Manager. His proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and execute large-scale transformation initiatives has resulted in sustainable, cost-effective, and globally competitive manufacturing solutions. Academically, he serves as a Research Professor at UANL, where he leads applied research projects, develops in-company training programs, and coordinates academic offerings at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels. He actively fosters university-industry collaboration and contributes to academic discourse as a board member of international journals such as INNOVAR, PAHO, Innovaciones de Negocios, and Vértice. Additionally, he is a registered Technology Evaluator and Researcher with CONACYT (RCEA) and a recognized member of various academic and research networks including RIICO, ACACIA, and AMC.

Dr. Osiris Perez Moreno, Universidad del Valle de Puebla

Dr. Osiris Perez Moreno is a highly qualified professional who combines a solid academic background with a distinguished track record in industrial management. He holds a Ph.D. in Philosophy, which has enabled him to develop a strategic, critical, and reflective vision focused on continuous improvement and ethical decision-making in complex environments. His profile is defined by an exceptional ability to lead teams, foster organizational culture, and optimize processes with a humanistic and analytical approach that is uncommon in technical fields.

For over five years, he has successfully served as a plant manager, overseeing production operations while ensuring efficiency, quality, and regulatory compliance at all levels. Under his leadership, the plants under his supervision have achieved substantial improvements in productivity, sustainability, and workplace environment. His interdisciplinary approach and strong communication skills have made him a respected leader among both operational staff and senior management.

Jesus Santoyo, Purdue University – Daniels School of Business

Jesús Santoyo is a Quality Assurance and Operations Management leader with a strong track record in the automotive, electronics, and consumer equipment industries. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Philosophy with a specialization in management, enhancing his technical expertise with a critical and strategic perspective on organizational leadership. His multicultural background and fluency in multiple languages allow him to act effectively as a bridge across diverse teams and hierarchical levels within the organization.

With a solid foundation in engineering, Jesús blends a structured analytical mindset with creative, forward-thinking problem-solving. This rare combination enables him to translate organizational vision and goals into systems that adapt to changing production environments. Passionate about designing quality and production models, his focus is on waste elimination, ultimate customer satisfaction, and optimal delivery of products and services. He serves as a key liaison among stakeholders across all organizational levels.

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Published

2025-07-31

How to Cite

Cruz-Alvarez, J. G., Perez Moreno, O., & Santoyo, J. (2025). The Economic Impact of Technological Innovation in Mexico’s Ceramic Industry: Strategic Alternatives to Enhance Sector Competitiveness. Vinculategica Efan, 11(4), 243–259. https://doi.org/10.29105/vtga11.4-1194