Francisco Cervantes had two victories in the world of business chambers this week. Firstly, he managed to agree with the new head of the National Agribusiness Council, Jorge Esteve, to maintain a less confrontational profile than his predecessor Juan Cortina, who wanted to replace Cervantes as the head of the CCE. On the other hand, at the Mexican Business Council, where Cervantes's position in the CCE was questioned, stricter rules will be established to promote a "generational change".
In the midst of these advances, Agustín Coppel, leader of Grupo Coppel, represents the opposition to Cervantes's continuity outside the established statutes. Coppel, who last year supported the candidacy of Xóchilt Gálvez, does not agree with the CCE's collaborative approach toward the government of Claudia Sheinbaum. In this context, Coppel has mentioned to his close associates that if the business sector will help in hiring migrants repatriated from the United States, the government should consider serious modifications to judicial reform.
Coppel's position reflects the business perception of support for Sheinbaum in her dispute with Washington, but with few concessions from the government, whether in judicial reforms, rescue of autonomous bodies, or favorable conditions for businesses with Pemex and CFE. Although the president has requested support, the response to business demands has been limited.
In this context, Coppel has begun to prepare a candidacy to replace Cervantes by the end of the year, seeking support and forging alliances. When asked about possible candidates, Coppel dismissed the two current aspirants, both Cortina from the CNA and José Medina Mora from Coparmex. The upcoming election in the ABM is keenly anticipated, where it is mentioned that Julio Carranza, an employee of Coppel, could have a chance to lead the bankers' association.
