Part 10/12:
She warns that unless both nations prioritize cracking down on these schemes—especially on the active complicity of American firms—the cycle of theft and smuggling will continue unabated. The large-scale profits involved have created a de facto parallel economy, with potential for environmental disasters, loss of state revenue, and strengthened cartel influence both sides of the border.
Key Takeaways
Crude oil theft from Mexico has become a billion-dollar industry, facilitated by corrupt officials, law enforcement, and willing American companies.
The extensive pipeline network operated by PEMEX is exploited for clandestine tapping, which often leads to dangerous pipeline explosions.