Mexico contributes approximately 1 per cent of international GHG emissions, mainly from the burning of fossil fuels for transportation and power generation. The country is considered highly vulnerable to climate change; around 70 per cent of the national population will be affected by its effects. With 11,000 kilometres of coastline Mexico is on the most frequent path of tropical storms. Within the framework of Mexican federalism, the General Law on Climate Change of Mexico distributes planning, implementation, and evaluation responsibilities among federal, state, and municipal authorities, while maintaining a centralised point of view in the design of climate policy and the definition of national strategy. The federal government defines national policy and leads international negotiations. Climate action in states and municipalities varies greatly; it is subject to adequate political will, governance and funding. The state of Yucatán has advanced a regional and state strategy to achieve climate goals, has engaged neighbouring states and municipalities to address climate vulnerability, and is participating in international mitigation and adaptation initiatives. It is an example to other states for its commitment to a more resilient future. For other states to do the same, a systematic and inclusive approach is needed at the national level to effectively implement Mexico’s nationally determined contributions. Coordination mechanisms exist, but still need to be exploited to their full potential to improve Mexico’s capacity to generate clear and tangible results on climate action.