6. Conclusion
Within the neoliberal paradigm, the conclusion of a free trade agreement such as the
NAFTA cultivates a logical sequel; maybe it can also be interpreted as an attempt to regain
momentum for the obviously failed neoliberal project between 1982 to 1988. The limits of
this political-economic strategy, due to the current outward orientation, will possibly be
shifted or obscured. A degree of revitalisation of economic activities, short or long-term,
need not be excluded. However, it will always be a very particular dynamic which will
affect only part of the Mexican economy. This outward-orientated neoliberalism cannot
realise a domestic-market based on distributive and productive economic policy which
satisfies the needs of the masses. This project appears just as unlikely to be in a position to
weaken or eliminate the considerable and recently growing social and regional polarisation
in Mexico. A homogenisation of the economy and society is hardly expected due to broader