Namely Ceramics, a Chinese tile manufacturer, arrived in Mexico in 2023, promising economic growth by investing $150 million in a plant. However, allegations have surfaced that the company has been illicitly extracting water during a severe drought, leading to potential closure.
Local farmers in Emiliano Zapata, Hidalgo, have accused Time Ceramics of harming the region’s water supply. A group of farmers held a news conference in Los Angeles to draw attention to the issue, claiming that the company’s activities are affecting over 100,000 people.
Government officials found evidence of violations and are considering revoking Time Ceramics’ business license. The company may face closure if the allegations are proven true. Despite the accusations, the company has not commented on the issue.
In January, the Mexican attorney general found that Time Ceramics had drilled illegal water wells and employed Chinese nationals without authorization. The company’s operation may be re-evaluated pending further investigation.