Why Only About One-Fifth of Mexico's Land Is Suitable for Farming

Roughly 20% of Mexico's land is arable due to:

• Arid/semi-arid climate in northern/central regions—low rainfall, high evaporation.
• Mountainous terrain (Sierra Madre ranges) with steep slopes and limited flat land.
• Deserts (Sonoran, Chihuahuan) with extreme temperatures and water scarcity.
• Tropical rainforests in the south—dense vegetation, limited sunlight, high humidity.
• Urbanization/industrialization converting farmland.
• Poor soil quality in some areas (erosion, salinity, nutrient depletion).

Despite constraints, Mexico uses irrigation, drought-resistant crops, and technology to remain a significant agricultural producer.