SEMAR Assumes Control of Ports and Merchant Marine

In an effort to strengthen port security and safety, the heads of the Secretariat of Communications and Transportation (SCT) Jorge Arganis Díaz Leal and of the Secretariat of the Navy (SEMAR), José Rafael Ojeda Durán, signed the documents that endorse the official transfer of the General Coordination of Ports and Merchant Marine (CGPMM).

This joint initiative will allow for greater dynamism in maritime activities, the strengthening of maritime and port security and safety, as well as the protection of the marine environment, thus complying with the provisions of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), without conflicting with the exercise of the powers of other agencies of the Federal Public Administration (APF).

As stated by the government’s website, SEMAR is now responsible for maritime and port security and safety, as well as maintaining the rule of law in Mexican marine areas, coasts, ports, harbors, terminals, and port facilities. It is also responsible for regulating water communications and transportation, as well as formulating and conducting policies and programs for the development of the maritime and port sectors. It also assumes powers over merchant nautical education, the promotion and organization of the merchant marine and the establishment of requirements for technical personnel, as well as the granting of licenses and authorizations.

SEMAR reports that by concentrating the attributions of the maritime-port sector in a single institution, Mexico is transformed and both secretariats have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen the national maritime sector, working for a strong and united Merchant Marine, which guarantees the well-being of the Mexican people by looking after their interests.