Mexico Trucking Faces Disruption After 108% Driver Salary Hike

Mexico's trucking industry is facing significant disruption following an unprecedented agreement between the National Chamber of Freight Transport (CANACAR) and the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) to increase truck driver salaries by 108%. The new wage standard, which took effect on Mar. 1, 2025, raises the daily base salary from MX$725.25 (US$34.81) to MX$1,511.55 (US$72.55). The measure has drawn strong opposition from transport sector representatives, who warn of severe financial repercussions.

On Feb. 28, CANACAR issued a circular informing its members of the change. The decision stems from an agreement reached during the IMSS Technical Council session on February 26, identified as Acuerdo ACDO.IN2.HCT.260225/53.P.DIR. The circular also nullified previous agreements from 2019 and 2023, which had established lower contribution factors.

While CANACAR asserts that the measure applies only to its members, the National Confederation of Mexican Transporters (CONATRAM) has voiced strong opposition. “We do not understand why CANACAR’s president, Miguel Ángel Martínez, agreed to an increase of more than 100%,” stated  Elías Dip Ramé, president, CONATRAM, in a document obtained by Grupo Reforma.

CONATRAM contends that CANACAR failed to account for differences among various types of drivers, such as those operating full-trailers versus single-unit trucks. The organization expressed concerns that the increase would disproportionately impact small operators, known as 'hombre-camión,' who typically own one to five trucks.

“There is no comparison between companies that have government contracts and those that do not. Nor is it fair to compare those with readily available trailers to those who may wait one or two days for cargo,” CONATRAM stated. It also pointed to worsening road conditions, increased congestion, and long delays at checkpoints, which diminish drivers' earning potential.

“There is not the same amount of cargo in the southeast, west, center, and north of the country. Many drivers will struggle to earn even MX$750 per day,” the organization added.

Dip Ramé also highlighted broader challenges facing the sector, including an increase in checkpoints that delay trips by up to four hours and the potential for tariff increases that could reduce cargo volumes. He questioned whether CANACAR had considered the tax implications for drivers, who will now be required to pay higher taxes on earnings that may not materialize under current operating conditions.

In response to the wage hike, CONATRAM plans to propose an alternative increase tied to inflation, suggesting a 5% rise in contribution factors instead of the 108% increase agreed upon by CANACAR.

“We are not opposed to paying what is fair, but it must be based on real earnings and aligned with the industry's financial realities,” Dip Ramé stated. If necessary, CONATRAM plans to escalate the issue to the Mexican Congress.

Industry reactions remain divided. In a national chat group of around 100 transport business owners, accessed by Reforma, members criticized CANACAR’s leadership. “CANACAR has accepted a 100% wage increase, which could be devastating for the industry,” one message stated. Others pointed to existing challenges, including a shortage of drivers, high toll costs (which surpass those in the United States), corruption on highways, and low-quality diesel that damages equipment.