Mexico Vehicle Maritime Flows Dip 4.4% on Lower Imports

Maritime movement of light vehicles in Mexico declined 4.4% in the first two months of 2026, totaling 256,936 units compared with 268,730 units in the same period of 2025, according to data released by the Directorate General of Ports. The contraction was driven by a reduction in imports, which fell from 129,169 to 115,946 units, while exports rose slightly from 139,561 to 140,990 units. The data reflects a shift in automotive trade flows, with weaker inbound volumes and limited export growth.

The Pacific coast recorded a 10.3% decline in total vehicle movement, falling from 126,454 units in 2025 to 113,378 units in 2026. The decrease was primarily driven by imports, which dropped from 100,921 to 85,381 units. Exports in the region increased from 25,533 to 27,997 units, but this growth did not compensate for the reduction in inbound flows.

Port-level results across the Pacific were mixed. Mazatlan registered a 30.7% increase in total volume, rising from 24,380 to 31,864 units, supported entirely by higher imports. In contrast, the Port of Lázaro Cárdenas recorded a 20.1% decline, with total movement falling from 102,074 to 81,514 units. Imports at the port dropped from 77,041 to 53,517 units, while exports increased from 25,033 to 27,997 units.

On the Gulf-Caribbean coast, total maritime movement increased 0.9%, rising from 142,276 to 143,558 units. The region maintained a stronger export base, although shipments declined slightly from 114,028 to 112,993 units. Imports increased from 28,248 to 30,565 units, supporting overall growth and offsetting export softness.

Veracruz led regional expansion, with total volume increasing 13.8% from 78,567 to 89,413 units. Imports rose from 26,885 to 29,579 units, while exports increased from 51,682 to 59,834 units. Altamira reported an 11.8% decline, while Tuxpan recorded a 48.8% drop.

At the national level, the decline in imports represents a significant adjustment in vehicle inflows. Export growth remained moderate and insufficient to offset the reduction. “The overall balance of the period shows an adjustment in maritime logistics dynamics in the automotive sector,” the report stated, adding that export performance “did not compensate for the drop in imports.”

Tariffs and Chinese Inventory Reshape Flows

Trade policy changes have added pressure to the market. Mexico imposed a 50% tariff on vehicle imports from countries without trade agreements, including China, effective January 2026. The measure replaced a previous 20% tariff and increased import costs. However, a large volume of Chinese vehicles had already entered the country before the policy took effect.

According to the China Passenger Car Association, exports to Mexico reached 625,187 units in 2025, making it the largest global destination for Chinese vehicles. As a result, inventory levels in the domestic market remain elevated, as importing additional units under the new tariff structure has become less viable.

Port infrastructure has been central to managing these volumes. The Port of Lázaro Cárdenas has consolidated its role as a primary entry point, supported by specialized terminals and available storage capacity. “We have a specialized terminal, and with it the service is much more efficient,” said María Agustina Álvarez, Commercial Manager, Asipona Lázaro Cárdenas. She added that space availability remains a key factor in handling vehicle flows.

Private operators are also expanding capacity. Kia, through Hyundai Glovis, has begun operating a dedicated yard at the port to improve handling flexibility. 

Infrastructure, Technology and Planning Trends

Industry executives said companies must prepare for a more volatile logistics environment as trade patterns evolve. During a sector webinar, Adriana Muñoz Arrieta, managing director for Mexico, Matson Logistics, said planning will require flexibility and contingency strategies. “The recommendation today is to have Plan A, B, C and D—not to overplan, but to remain agile in the face of constant change,” she said.

She added that companies should avoid reactive decisions that could increase costs without evaluating supply chain impacts. Regulatory changes, customs adjustments and the upcoming review of the USMCA are expected to influence logistics strategies, particularly in the automotive sector.