Tariffs’ Impact on Construction; Expropriation for Mayan Train

This week, US President Donald Trump proposed tariffs that threaten to hike construction costs. Meanwhile Mexico’s government pushes forward with Mayan Train expropriations despite budget cuts.

In other news, EGIS Group bets big on North America, planning an US$800 million investment in infrastructure. Additionally, trade connectivity gets a boost with CPKC’s new railway bridge linking Laredo and Nuevo Laredo.

Your weekly dose of Infrastructure is here!

Trump’s Potential Tariffs Spark Construction Cost Concerns

Trump’s proposed 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports raises construction costs, threatens housing affordability, and disrupts supply chains. Industry leaders warn of price hikes up to US$40,000 per home, delays, and economic strain. Advocacy groups are pushing for exemptions to mitigate the impact.

Sheinbaum Expropriates Land for Mayan Train Amid Budget Cuts

President Claudia Sheinbaum decreed the expropriation of over 914,000m² of private land for the Mayan Train, affecting 101 properties across multiple states. Owners can contest compensation but cannot halt the process. Meanwhile, budget reallocations have shifted priorities, with migration policy seeing a 488.6% funding increase, while the Mayan Train’s budget was cut by 70%.

EGIS Group Plans US$800 Million Investment in USMCA Region

EGIS Group sees Mexico as a key market, doubling its revenue to US$55 million with 1,200 employees. The company plans to expand through acquisitions and infrastructure concessions, addressing mobility, electromobility, and environmental challenges. Despite tariff risks, EGIS remains optimistic about Mexico’s long-term growth, leveraging its engineering teams to support US projects and increasing private sector involvement.

CPKC Opens Ottensmeyer Bridge Linking Laredo, Nuevo Laredo

The Patrick J. Ottensmeyer International Railway Bridge, newly opened by CPKC, doubles rail freight capacity at the Laredo-Nuevo Laredo corridor, a key North American trade route. The US$100 million project enhances efficiency, security, and connectivity between Mexico, the United States, and Canada under the USMCA.

BOMA Desarrollos Lays the First Stone of Country Lakes in Yucatan

BOMA Desarrollos has launched Country Lakes in Yucatan, a MX$7 billion (US$338.6 million) project combining economic growth with environmental preservation, creating 10,000 jobs while conserving 40% of its 1,100ha area.

State of Mexico to Install 50 Recycling Machines

The State of Mexico will install 50 recycling machines in government buildings to reduce waste and promote recycling. Led by Alhely Rubio, Minister of Environment, the initiative offers public incentives for recyclable materials and aims to expand statewide.