This book explores the political economy of subnational development in Mexico. Like much of Latin America, Mexico underwent market reforms and democratization in the late 20th century. In addition to transforming national institutions, these changes led to sharp political and economic divergence among Mexican states. The author offers a novel explanation for these uneven results, showing how relations between local governments and organized business gave rise to distinct subnational institutions for managing the economy. The argument is developed through a paired comparison of two states in central Mexico, Puebla and Querétaro. This work will be of interest to students of Latin American and Mexican politics, regional development, and government-business relations.

Explains how divergent sub-national developmental institutions can arise out of national political and economic reforms. Illuminates the conditions under which multinational enterprises become active proponents of developmental policies at the local level. Provides a novel explanation for the uneven results of democratization and economic reform across Mexico's states.

Autorentext

Theodore Kahn is Visiting Scholar in the Latin American Studies Program at the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, USA.

Inhalt

1. Introduction.- 2. Governing Subnational Economies.- 3. Origins and Consequences of Divergent Private Sector Organization in Puebla and Querétaro.- 4. Building Institutions for Cooperation in Querétaro, 1979-1991.- 5. Partisan Rivalry between Government and Business in Puebla, 1981-1993.- 6. Consolidation of a Developmental Alliance in Querétaro, 1991-1997.- 7. Authoritarian Political Economy and Global Integration in Puebla, 1993-1999.- 8. Querétaro's Rising Star in the Global Economy, 1997-2009.- 9. Institutional Erosion and Economic Stagnation in Puebla, 1999-2011.- 10. Conclusion