The Mexican government has announced a port modernization programme covering six major ports: Port of Ensenada, Port of Manzanillo, Port of Lazaro Cardenas, Port of Acapulco, Port of Veracruz, and Port of Progreso. The initiative is intended to expand maritime infrastructure capacity and improve logistics operations across the country.

According to project information, the programme includes approximately MX$55.2 billion (US$2.96 billion) in public investment alongside MX$241 billion (US$12.94 billion) in private sector funding. The planned works are expected to focus on infrastructure upgrades, port operations, and logistics connectivity.

Officials stated that the modernization plan is aimed at strengthening Mexico’s maritime transport network and supporting trade and investment activities through expanded port capabilities.

Other Projects

While Mexico works on its six key ports, the US is also advancing the Brownsville Gateway Land port overhaul. The groundbreaking was conducted by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) and U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Moreover, the port serves as one of the busiest U.S.-Mexico border crossings, an essential factor for an overhaul. It aims aims to renovate the current land port of entry by demolishing existing facilities. On the other hand, it will expand key areas as a new 48,000-square-foot administration building will be built. It will replace the current 22,000-square-foot space, providing an updated facility for federal inspection agencies.

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 also 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.