Mexico City(1) / Mexico

Mexico City is the capital of Mexico, and is the world's largest metropolis with 22 million inhabitants. Although a single country, Mexico is an ethnological melting pot comprised of three basic cultures: native Mexican, Spanish colonial and a modern culture primarily structured around U.S. influences. This unique environment shows the city in a different light daily.

When Marubeni first began operations in Mexico in 1954, the main focus of business activities was the export of cotton. The office has expanded, adapting to changes in the economic structure over the years, and now is primarily involved in the import of a diverse range of products including steel, tires, chemicals and machinery. Today, operations are undertaken by five Japanese and 26 national staff working closely together to enhance Marubeni's proud history in the region through the exploration of new business opportunities expected to unfold in the 21st century.

One of Marubeni Mexico's members is Narciso Orona Acosta. Mr. Orona Acosta joined the Metal Division in 1997, and has since spent much of his time promoting and developing the sales of flat steel products to service centers and galvanization centers in the construction and manufacturing industries. He has also been actively involved in selling non-ferrous products to wire-rod manufacturers, gas-conduction piping to Petroleos Mexicanos (PEMEX) through construction companies, and deep-drawn quality (DDQ) steel for stamping machinery utilized in the automotive industry. In fact, since joining the company, Mr. Orona Acosta has devoted his time entirely to the steel and metal products sector. He is continuously working to develop new products and uses for them, such as aluminum for use in galvanization centers and electric-conduction-wire rods, which he introduces to current and prospective clientele on his sales routes. He is also participating in government bids for other steel products. Mr. Orona Acosta's sales policy is to maintain constant contact with potential customers even if Marubeni does not have an ongoing business relationship with them. His motto, "The key to excellent results is to always be prepared."

There are obviously differences between Mexican and Japanese people when it comes to manners and customs. Nevertheless, he works harmoniously with his colleagues from overseas, and places importance on working with customers to determine the best ways to raise overall efficiency and attain the optimum benefit for customer and company.

Developments in the past ten years, including the implementation of NAFTA and free trade agreements with other countries, have provided an influence that has transformed Mexican businesspeople, especially in the areas of work punctuality, English ability, international interaction and the acceptance of foreign cultures. A sign of changing times and attitudes is visible in the recent election of President Fox, who placed an exclamation mark on this transformation, using as a pillar in his platform a pledge to shift from "Hasta Manana" to "Hoy" - from working at a leisurely pace to timely execution.

Mr. Orona Acosta personally believes that Mexicans are working harder and assuming more responsibility in their positions. This has led to improvement in the overall economy and the attainment of stable salaries and employment. He also gave a vital insight into the Mexican people when he related that their famous warmth is always there for people who hold relationships dear.

Fortunately, Mr. Orona Acosta is a man devoted to growing and improving relationships, both professionally and personally.

Marubeni Mexico's office is housed in the dynamic skyscraper at the fore.