Baltimore Bridge Collapse; Mayan Train Derailment

This week, the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland collapsed as a vessel collided into the bridge, disrupting vital trade routes. Meanwhile, the Mayan Train is facing corruption allegations as the train derailed in Yucatan. In other news, cargo theft in Mexico shows conflicting reports in its data, causing uncertainty among stakeholders. 

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Baltimore Bridge Collapse Disrupts Trade

In the early hours of March 26, 2024, the DALI, a 948ft Singapore-flagged container ship, collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, causing its collapse and prompting a state of emergency declaration. The incident disrupted the Port of Baltimore’s operations, with vessel traffic suspended indefinitely. Maersk and MSC have already suspended services to the port, rerouting cargo and causing delays. 

Mayan Train Derailment Fuels Corruption Allegations

The Mayan Train went through a derailment at the Tixkokob station in Yucatan on March 25. Despite no injuries or significant damage, the incident raised safety concerns and brought to light corruption allegations surrounding the project. The operator company is investigating the cause of the incident.

Inconsistent Reports Complicate Mexico's Cargo Theft Problem

Mexico keeps dealing with conflicting reports on cargo theft, leaving stakeholders uncertain about its true extent. While Blac reports a significant surge of 92% in theft cases in February 2024 compared to the previous year, the SESNSP indicates a 4.67% decrease during the same period, though with a high incidence of violence. 

Mexico-Toluca Interurban Train Receives More Federal Funds

The Federal Executive, through the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation, has announced a coordination agreement with the Government of Mexico City, allocating US$235.4 million for the Mexico-Toluca Interurban Train project.

Maersk Opens New Warehouse Facility in Tijuana

Maersk inaugurated a sizable 30,000m2 facility in Tijuana, Baja California, situated strategically in the Pacifico Industrial Park. This new site is designed to serve various industries including technology, automotive, retail, and lifestyle. Positioned to enhance cross-border trade, it benefits from Tijuana's proximity to key commercial ports like Los Angeles-Long Beach and Ensenada.

GSA Invests US$1 Billion to Modernize US Land Ports of Entry

The US General Services Administration (GSA) is set to invest over US$1 billion in upgrading federal Land Ports of Entry (LPOE) across the United States. This initiative aims to modernize infrastructure, promote domestic clean manufacturing, and incorporate sustainable technologies. The investment will support 38 projects, with US$850 million allocated for low-embodied carbon materials and US$60 million for emerging sustainable technologies.

Echo Global Logistics Expands Cross-Border Services in Mexico

Echo Global Logistics has announced its expansion of cross-border services in Mexico. With operations now established in Mexico City, Monterrey, and Laredo, Texas, the company aims to streamline brokerage and enhance support for clients and carriers navigating customs and border crossings.