*The private security sector in Mexico accounts for around 1.8% of GDP, according to industry representatives participating in a forum organised by Agrupaciones de Seguridad Unidas por México (Asume), a grouping of industry associations. In the forum, entitled ‘Challenges for the private security industry’, participants also stressed that the sector provides 900,000 direct jobs via more than 5,400 companies. Challenges discussed included insecurity in cities and highways, social polarisation, cybercrime, and the use of new technology, as well as the need for professional training for those working in the sector.