In the vast international trade scenario, seaports play a crucial role, acting as gateways to continents and nations. Mexico, with its strategic geographic location, is positioned as the 11th country with the largest export capacity worldwide. With 102 ports and 15 terminals, these logistic nodes are fundamental engines not only for the country’s economic growth, but also for global trade.
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Benefits of Mexican ports worldwide:
Mexico’s privileged location translates into immense potential for growth in international trade. The 102 seaports allow connections with more than 145 countries, including commercial powers such as China, the United States and Latin America. This strategic network becomes an essential pillar for 80% of the goods transported by sea worldwide.
Current port connectivity in Mexico:
Although Mexico stands out for its participation in international trade, a deficiency has been observed in the connectivity between its ports compared to more developed regions. This analysis calls for an alignment of geographical advantages with efforts to improve competitiveness in foreign trade. The Port Development Master Program (PMDP) proposes crucial initiatives, from linkage with transport networks to efficiency in customs document flow.
Trends to boost port services:
The impact of the pandemic has generated an increase in product demand, the rise of e-commerce and freight forwarding. To adapt to this change, there are trends that Mexico should consider, such as the acceleration of containerized cargo transport processes, the development of specialized terminals, the planning of new logistics systems and the incorporation of technologies to improve connectivity.
Exploring Mexico’s top 5 ports:
1. Port of Manzanillo:
Located in Colima, the Port of Manzanillo stands as Mexico’s busiest multipurpose port. Its capacity to handle different types of cargo, from containers to agricultural bulk and minerals, makes it a key player in the logistics scene. Operating year-round thanks to favorable weather conditions, the port connects mainly with central and Bajio areas of Mexico, as well as international destinations such as the United States, Canada, Colombia, and Asian countries like China, Japan, India, Singapore and Malaysia. During 2020, it mobilized an impressive 2,909,599 TEU’s, standing out in the export of products such as beer, copper, coal, steel pipes, resin and sugar.
2. Port Lázaro Cárdenas:
Located in Michoacán, the Port of Lázaro Cárdenas is the second busiest port in Mexico. Its modern infrastructure and semi-automated terminal position it as a strategic point for containerized cargo, general cargo, bulk, vehicles and more. With a dynamic capacity of 600,000 vehicles per year, this eco-friendly port stands out for its connections with more than 100 ports worldwide. Despite the challenges of 2020, it managed to mobilize around 1,630,675 TEU’s, evidencing its resilience and relevance in international trade.
3. Port of Veracruz:
Nestled in the Gulf of Mexico, the Port of Veracruz, with more than 500 years of history, is one of the oldest and most significant ports in Latin America. Its direct access to the Atlantic connects it to key ports in Europe, the United States, Latin America and Asia through the Panama Canal. In addition to its more than 72 km of railways and 80 km of roads, its central role in the Mexican automotive industry makes it stand out. In 2020, it moved 1,005,936 TEU’s, and is currently immersed in an expansion and modernization project, the ‘New Port of Veracruz’, with the objective of tripling its cargo handling capacity.
4. Port of Altamira:
Located on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, in Tamaulipas, the Port of Altamira stands out for its multimodal nature and its connections with 125 ports worldwide. Covering 9,500 hectares and comprising 13 marine terminals, it is a key logistics node for the northern and central regions of Mexico. Its relevance is evidenced by the movement of 776,999 TEU’s in 2020, being the leader in the handling of petrochemical fluids. With rail and land connections, it plays an essential role in national and international trade.
5. Port of Ensenada:
Located on the west coast of Baja California, the Port of Ensenada stands out for its connection with border cities such as Tijuana, Tecate and Mexicali. Only 110 kilometers from the U.S. border, it is a key point for trade with the United States. Unlike other ports that experienced declines in 2020, Ensenada mobilized around 384,871 TEU’s, showing a remarkable resistance to adversities. With cargo and passenger terminals, this diversified port complex plays a crucial role in trade with the U.S., Asia, Nicaragua and New Zealand.
Mexican ports are the backbone of the country’s industrial and commercial growth. Their modernization and adaptation to current trends are imperative to take full advantage of their potential. Continued investment and development in these strategic nodes will not only boost the national economy but also consolidate Mexico as a key player in the global maritime trade scenario.
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