Mexico City had access to electricity, oil and other power sources, the provision of water and drainage facilities, and was the focus of major road investment programmes. The most important industrial activities undertaken in the city include the manufacture of clothing, furniture and repairs, publishing activities, production of rubber, plastic and metal goods, as well as the assembly and repair of electrical goods. Most of this production was for the national and local markets rather than oriented towards global markets, as is now the case due to the North American Free Trade Agreement. Urbanization has had a serious negative effect on the ecosystem of Mexico City. Though water supplies have increased to 300 liters per day per capita, the city lacks an efficient distribution system.
Pollution is undoubtedly the most serious problem in Mexico City.
Though government planning strategies strive towards the decentralization of Mexico City, tax subsidies and other government actions often make the city more attractive than other areas. Furthermore, Mexicans who desire to remain in Mexico City are influenced by numerous social, political, educational and cultural factor, and they often equate living in Mexico City with the image of personal success. It seems unlikely, therefore, that the national predominance of Mexico City will change very much during the remainder of the twentieth century.