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Reynosa Maquiladora Association works to improve industry
The Reynosa Maquiladora Association (RMA) is a voluntary organization with 87 maquiladoras in its membership. These
maquiladora's employ approximately 40,000 employees.
The National Maquiladora Association has over 2,000 members and interacts directly with the Mexican government.
"Each region has formed an association of
companies operating through a volunteer board of directors, with committees for the areas of finance, import/export, industrial relations, education and the environment," said Javier Ledesma, RMA board member, and
operations director for Invamex a Division of Invacare Inc.
These associations are well organized and respected members of the industry in Mexico. Mutual cooperation with the government at all levels has been
beneficial for both parties.
The RMA works closely with most chambers of commerce in the United States as well as with the McAllen Economic Development Corporation.
It also has a good working relationship with
various governmental agencies from the city of Reynosa and state of Tamualipas Mexico.
To become an RMA member, a company signs its intentions to comply with the laws of Mexico and signs a statement of commitment to
achieve compliance with environmental regulations. Not all foreign companies defined as maquilas choose to become members of their local association.
The RMA directs resources to many community projects on both sides
of the border.
In 1999, over $20,000 of the associations funds have been earmarked for such programs as the Red Cross, Boys and Girls Club, Food Bank, Make A Wish Foundation, orphanages and a variety of other
programs.
Additionally, the RMA provides eight local scholarships to high school students wishing to continue their college schooling in the field of Engineering at the University of Texas - Pan American. |
