Security, Experience, Location

Q: What added value does API Campeche offer in terms of supporting infrastructure for the Mexican oil and gas sector?

A: Our strength relies on three elements. The first is security, and we are the number one state as far as port security goes. For our three ports in Campeche – Carmen, Seybaplaya and Lerma – we developed partnerships with the Ministry of Public Security through which it provides special security operations at our ports. This has provided us with a strong competitive advantage because most companies in the sector looking to launch port operations always ask about security. Second, we have broad experience with the market. Working for more than 30 years in the energy sector, both with PEMEX and international companies, has allowed us to amass the knowledge and relationships to facilitate the entry of new participants into the market. The third point is Campeche’s strategic position in relation to the main oil fields in Round Zero. Being the closest port for 80 percent of PEMEX’s shallow-water wells offers great potential for future operations related to farm-outs and for future shallow-water rounds located in our shores. API Campeche also has strong relationships with other port administrations.

Q: How is API Campeche preparing for the expected boom in Gulf of Mexico operations?

A: We are developing important infrastructure in the ports of Carmen and Seybaplaya. Carmen will see an investment of over US$55 million, allowing for a 12ha (30ac) expansion with 1km extra of docks. The same investment amount is expected in Seybaplaya, resulting in another 7ha and 412m extra of docks, as well as a modernization of the energy and potable-water installations at the port. The related industrial parks at both ports will also be modernized and the ports’ ISPS codes will be recertified.

One of the main advantages of modernizing the port of Carmen is that it will give the port a 7m draft, meaning almost 3m more. This will allow the port to manage bigger vessels that are required by the offshore operations expected in the short term. The same is being done at Seybaplaya port where we are developing underground and dredging studies to allow it to accept bigger ships. This modernization is not only for the incorporation of international companies but also for PEMEX, as the NOC is looking to become more competitive.

Q: What is API Campeche’s strategy for consolidation in the near and midterm?

A: We want to stop being seen only as a tax collector and administrator. To achieve this, we are venturing into new working schemes that are helping us to create partnerships with public or private companies. API Campeche is already working on PPP schemes to develop all the projects that will be needed in the short and medium term and that will require large capital investments, such as the potential development of a ship and a platform yard. To capture the attention of companies in this specific area we published official announcements of intent in the main national media outlets. We are also talking directly with companies we know could work with us. We have received interest from important companies, such as Keppel, and hope to launch the official bidding rounds soon.

API Campeche wants to support the operations of all the companies that are coming to Mexico and starting operations. The new facilities at all our ports must be strongly focused on providing support for the energy sector, providing tailor-made solutions for companies in the sector, while opening space for other opportunities, such as those in the commercial sector.