Abstract

IBARRA, David. Energy reform: Deciding Mexico's future. Economía UNAM [online]. 2008, vol.5, n.15, pp.29-37. ISSN 1665-952X.

The author analyzes the fundamental problems facing Pemex, rejecting the government's intention to renew the process of privatizing the oil company's main activities. He reviews the arguments used to support the official initiative for energy reform, as well as the elements that refute such arguments. He analyzes the "root problem," specifically the exaction of oil revenue by the Mexican government, and identifies possibilities for recapitalizing Pemex. Pointing to the lack of a long-term strategy for energy development and security, the author emphasizes the problems and the measures that must be implemented in key areas in order to rebuild Pemex. With greater detail, he challenges the claims used to support the proposal for turning over refining in the future to private "maquilas"-an action that would hand over part of the country's oil revenue to permanent partners.