Resilience, Opportunity in Chemicals Logistics: Leschaco

Q: What are Leschaco’s main areas of focus within its global and Mexican operations?
A: As an independent and global logistics provider, the Leschaco Group offers integrated solutions, focusing on international transport by sea and air, contract logistics, tank container operations and innovative 4PL/LLP concepts. One of the most relevant verticals we are serving is the chemical sector and all its surrounding industries, also including, to a certain extent, oil and gas. Our expertise in the transport and handling of chemicals and dangerous goods makes us a key player for such industries.

Q: How do you view the current market trends and business outlook for 2026?
A: There are two aspects to consider. Looking at global and regional trends, the overall environment does not look very promising. It is not exactly a crisis, but we are seeing stagnation in business development, whether in Europe, Latin America, or here in Mexico.  Most of our customers do not expect significant growth next year, and since we reflect our customers’ performance, this impacts us directly. That´s why we are focusing on expanding our market share in Mexico and beyond. Still, we see plenty of opportunities for growth. 

Due to the high level of uncertainty, many customers are reducing costs and seeking strategic partnerships, both locally and globally. As a global logistics company, we see great potential, particularly across Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America, where clients are looking for strong, long-term partners, offering operational excellence, financial stability and innovative solutions.

Q: How have logistics of chemical goods evolved globally in recent years?
A: We have seen major changes in how chemical goods move around the world. This began during the pandemic, when imports shifted from Europe toward Asia, especially China, something that was much less pronounced before. Many of these new trade relationships remain active today. As a result, volumes of chemical goods entering Pacific ports like Manzanillo and Lázaro Cárdenas have increased, while Gulf ports such as Veracruz and Altamira have seen declines. Another important development is the growing demand for visibility. Due to the negative experiences with the global supply chain disruption during the pandemic, customers want to know exactly where their goods are and when they will arrive, not just the date, but even the hour. Real-time visibility and analytical tools for cost tracking have become essential, and demand for these capabilities has grown significantly in recent years.

Q: What are some of the main logistical challenges you face in Mexico, and how are you addressing them?
A: We have placed a strong focus on Mexican inland logistics, where several operational challenges arise once goods arrive in the country. Infrastructure remains an issue, especially at Pacific ports such as Manzanillo and Lázaro Cárdenas, where delays lead to extra costs for our customers. Our priority is to manage customs and port operations efficiently to avoid unnecessary costs and deliver on time, though external factors often complicate this. We stay in close contact with customers to evaluate the best import options. Some are shifting from Pacific to Gulf ports, but changes are limited by shipping line services. Another key challenge is the sharp increase in logistics costs over the past five years, driven by the pandemic and inflation, particularly in Latin America. We are working strategically with customers to make all these costs visible, minimize them, and prevent further disruptions.

Q: How do you view Mexico’s role in your long-term growth strategy?
A: We have always seen Mexico as a growth market, even during challenging times. Since our arrival to the Mexican market in 1998, we have remained confident about the future. The chemical industry requires industry knowledge and especially skilled people, because not everyone can handle, transport, and ship chemical goods safely, particularly hazardous materials. Our expertise, rooted in our people, remains a major advantage, especially as customers seek stronger partnerships. There is a great opportunity to build on our strengths while integrating new technologies. Artificial intelligence will play an increasingly important role in logistics and customer relations. At the same time, our regional and global structure aligns with clients who are restructuring into regional clusters and seeking stronger visibility tools and control tower solutions. We are well positioned for this trend, which will continue shaping the market in the years to come.

Q: How do you see the balance between human talent and artificial intelligence in the logistics sector?
A: I do not see a major shift from people to AI, there will be a combination of both. While strong technological trends exist, people continue to play a crucial role in the chemical market, even more so today given the challenges we face. Machines alone cannot solve everything. It still takes human knowledge, interaction, motivation, and passion to work closely with customers and find solutions. That is why we have recently invested in the Leschaco Americas Business School-LABS, developing young talent through a centralized training program across Mexico and the broader LATAM region. This initiative ensures that our apprentices not only gain technical skills but also understand our culture and become part of the Leschaco family from the very start.

Q: What message would you like to share with the industry amid today’s challenges?
A: My message is that, despite all the concerns and difficulties we face as an industry, and as a logistics provider, we must avoid falling into negativity, which is always a risk. I have lived through several difficult moments in my career, and there is always a way out. The key is to stay creative and optimistic.

Leschaco is an independent and global service provider for integrated logistics solutions offering sea and air freight, contract logistics, tank container and innovative LLP & 4PL Solutions, as well as local services.