Authorities in Mexico are unveiling a landmark modernization initiative to six key ports: Ensenada, Manzanillo–Cuyutlán, Lázaro Cárdenas, Acapulco, Veracruz, and Progreso. The comprehensive strategy combines MX$55.2 billion (US$2.96 billion) in public funding with MX$241 billion (US$12.94 billion) in private investment, aiming to elevate Mexico’s maritime competitiveness, streamline logistics infrastructure, and attract record levels of investment. Additionally, officials hope this bold move will position Mexico as a global logistics powerhouse, setting the stage for broader regional trade expansion.
Ensenada to Manzanillo: Infrastructure and Capacity Gains
First, the plan focuses on Ensenada, where SEMAR is advancing both commercial and tourism capacities. Projects include a Maritime Traffic Control Center (70% complete, delivery expected September 2025), dock expansion by June 2026, and protective breakwaters by 2028. Notably, private investors are funding a new ferry terminal to San Diego, alongside cruise, marina, and passenger terminals. Meanwhile, Manzanillo–Cuyutlán is being developed into Latin America’s top container port, anchored by major public dredging investments, PEMEX terminal relocation, and large private investments aimed at building multiple container terminals by 2030.
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Expanding Multi-Modal Hubs and Tourist Ports
Elsewhere, Lázaro Cárdenas is receiving upgrades to La Palma Island, customs facilities, and urban bypass roads, alongside private investments by APM, Hutchison, and SSA in terminal expansions. In Acapulco, the focus is on tourism infrastructure, new ferry services, waterfront enhancements, and a cruise terminal slated for late 2026 delivery. Furthermore, Veracruz will secure a three-kilometer breakwater, new docks, customs infrastructure, and control towers to support northern bay development. Finally, Progreso is being transformed with deepening its navigation channel, building 40-hectare platforms, and developing facilities for cargo and cruise vessels, positioning it as the Yucatán Peninsula’s primary maritime gateway.
Broad National Reach: Strengthening Mexico’s Maritime Network
Beyond these six ports, Mexico is channeling private capital into Guaymas (MX$40.7B), Topolobampo (MX$84.86B), and Altamira (MX$0.8B), complementing upgrades in places like Punta Colonet, Matamoros, and Dos Bocas. Additionally, the Interoceanic Corridor of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec is enhancing rail access at Salina Cruz and Coatzacoalcos, creating intermodal synergies across the nation. Together, these initiatives signal a transformational shift towards a modern, integrated port system in Mexico, geared for global trade growth and economic resilience.
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Project Overview
National Upgrade Strategy: Mexico is investing in six major ports to boost logistics efficiency and global maritime competitiveness.
Total Investment: The plan combines MX$55.2B (US$2.96B) in public funds and MX$241B (US$12.94B) in private capital.
Port Targets: Key ports include Ensenada, Manzanillo-Cuyutlán, Lázaro Cárdenas, Acapulco, Veracruz, and Progreso.
Ensenada Enhancements: Focus on tourism and commercial upgrades, including a Maritime Traffic Control Center and new ferry terminal to San Diego.
Manzanillo Expansion: Set to become Latin America’s top container port with new terminals, PEMEX relocation, and major dredging.
Lázaro Cárdenas Modernization: La Palma Island development, customs updates, road and runway improvements, plus private terminal investments.
Acapulco Tourism Revamp: New ferry system, cruise terminal, and conversion of restricted port areas into public waterfront space.
Veracruz Northern Bay Development: Includes 3km breakwater, upgraded customs and power infrastructure, and mixed-use cargo facilities.
Progreso Port Upgrade: Dredging and two 40ha platforms will expand cargo, cruise, and fuel handling capacity.
Nationwide Impact: Additional investments in Guaymas, Topolobampo, Altamira, and the Interoceanic Corridor reinforce national trade resilience.
