1. plural of maquila; factories or assembly plants, typically in Mexico or other developing countries, that assemble imported components into finished goods for export, often under favorable trade agreements.
Usage: chiefly used in economic and trade contexts; often refers to the maquila industry in Mexico near the U.S. border

Examples

• Many maquilas in northern Mexico produce automotive parts for U.S. companies.
• The maquilas industry has been a major source of employment in the region.
• Workers in maquilas often assemble electronics and textiles for international markets.
• Trade agreements have encouraged the growth of maquilas along the border.
• The maquilas sector faces competition from factories in Asia.