How Did Germán Larrea Mota Velasco Make His Money?

Germán Larrea Mota Velasco’s Profile Summary

Company	Grupo México
Position	Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
Source of wealth	Mining, transportation, and infrastructure through Grupo México.
Also known as	Germán Larrea
Age	72
Education	Not publicly disclosed
Citizenship	Mexico
Residence	Mexico City, Mexico
Family	Married
Website, Social Media	https://www.gmexico.com/Pages/default.aspx

Biography

Germán Larrea Mota-Velasco, born on October 26, 1953, in Mexico City, is a prominent Mexican businessman and the driving force behind Grupo México, the nation's largest mining corporation and a significant player in the global copper industry.

Larrea's career began in 1978 when he founded Grupo Impresa, a printing and publishing company, where he served as Chairman and CEO until its sale in 1989.

In 1981, he joined Grupo México, a company established by his father, Jorge Larrea Ortega. Over the years, Larrea held various executive positions, culminating in his appointment as Chairman, President, and CEO in 1994.

Under his leadership, Grupo México expanded its operations beyond mining, venturing into the transportation sector. In 1997, Larrea became Chairman and CEO of Grupo Ferroviario Mexicano, overseeing the largest railroad network in Mexico.

Additionally, he has held significant roles in companies such as Southern Copper Corporation and Empresarios Industriales de México.

Larrea is known for maintaining a low public profile, rarely giving interviews or making public appearances. Despite this, his influence in the mining and transportation industries is substantial. As of December 2024, his net worth was estimated at $27.3 billion, making him one of the wealthiest individuals in Mexico.

Beyond his business endeavors, Larrea has a passion for horse breeding and owns St. George Stable. His mare, Letruska, made history by becoming the first horse that had raced in Mexico to win at the Grade I level in the United States, securing victory in the Apple Blossom Handicap in 2021.

How did Germán Larrea Mota Velasco make money?
Germán Larrea Mota Velasco’s wealth stems from his strategic leadership of Grupo México, which he transformed into a multinational conglomerate. After joining the family business in 1981, he became its Chairman and CEO in 1994. Larrea played a key role in expanding Grupo México’s mining operations, particularly through the acquisition of Southern Copper Corporation, which positioned the company as one of the largest copper producers globally.

Larrea further diversified the company’s portfolio by expanding into the transportation sector with Grupo Ferroviario Mexicano, Mexico’s largest railroad operator. This diversification provided stable revenue streams and reduced reliance on the volatile commodities market.

Grupo México’s infrastructure division focuses on large-scale projects in Latin America, including highway construction and port operations, further solidifying its presence in the region. Larrea’s approach to business has been characterized by strategic acquisitions and long-term planning, ensuring sustained growth.

As of January 2025, Larrea’s net worth is estimated at $27.3 billion. His primary sources of wealth are his controlling stake in Grupo México and his leadership in the mining and transportation sectors. His ability to navigate economic cycles and focus on core industries has made him one of Latin America’s most successful business figures.
What is Germán Larrea Mota Velasco net worth?

As of 2026, Germán Larrea Mota Velasco’s net worth is estimated to be $36.3B.

What is Germán Larrea Mota Velasco also known as?

Germán Larrea is known as a leading figure in the mining and transportation industries in Mexico. His leadership of Grupo México has positioned him as one of the wealthiest and most influential businessmen in Latin America.

Prominent achievements

Under Larrea’s leadership, Grupo México became the world’s third-largest copper producer and expanded into Mexico’s largest railroad operator. He successfully diversified the company’s portfolio and ensured sustained growth across multiple industries.

What are Germán Larrea Mota Velasco’s key insights?

Larrea emphasizes vertical integration and diversification to reduce risks and stabilize revenue. He believes in long-term investments in core industries like mining and transportation to ensure business resilience.

Personal life

Germán Larrea is married and resides in Mexico City. He is known for his privacy, and details about his family are scarce. He owns and operates St. George Stable, a renowned Thoroughbred horse breeding operation that has produced several successful racehorses.

Useful insights

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