Grupo CICE Launches Second Phase of Veracruz North Bay Terminal

Grupo CICE, a Mexican group of companies that provides port, logistics, and land transportation services, has announced the start of operations of the second phase of its Semi-Specialized Container and Project Cargo Terminal in the North Bay of the Port of Veracruz. 

The second phase of operations further expands the terminal’s capabilities. The latest development incorporates an 8,000m² CFS warehouse for the reception, delivery, handling, and safeguarding of goods, as well as a specialized area equipped with 350 refrigerated container connections and 570 additional positions for containers and project cargo. These additions are designed to optimize both LCL and FCL operations, while reducing gate-in and gate-out times in strict compliance with customs regulations.

In line with its vision of being the most comprehensive logistics solutions provider, Grupo CICE will soon incorporate new rail-mounted multipurpose cranes, in addition to the rubber-tired multipurpose cranes now in operation. This will optimize vessel handling and port service delivery at the Terminal, strengthen the group’s positioning within Mexico’s port and logistics sector, and contribute to the country’s economic and commercial development.

The expansion builds on the inauguration of the terminal’s first phase and marks a key step in consolidating Veracruz as a strategic logistics and foreign trade hub.

The terminal project, including both phases, represents a total investment of about MX$7 billion (US$410 million), funded entirely with Mexican capital, and is expected to generate more than 500 direct jobs and 1,200 indirect jobs. 

The terminal, awarded through a public bidding process, spans 22ha and features state-of-the-art infrastructure, including a 550m dock with a 15m draft, two berthing positions, a multimodal yard with nearly 2km of rail spur, and an on-site wastewater treatment plant. Financing for the project includes a MX$4.15 billion syndicated loan with a term of up to 15 years, structured by Latam Capital Advisors and supported by major Mexican financial institutions, including BanBajío, Banorte, Multiva, Bancomext, Bx+, Monex, and FIRA, MBN reports.

With a static capacity of 13,200 TEUs, throughput potential of up to 380,000 containers per year, 550m of berth, and integrated rail infrastructure, the facility is positioned to capture 20% to 25% of Veracruz’s container market while complementing existing terminals rather than displacing them.

Leoncio Pérez, CEO, Grupo CICE, tells MBN that fully integrating maritime, rail, road, and warehousing operations remains one of the group’s main challenges. While Grupo CICE has a strong presence in Veracruz and a growing transportation fleet, scaling nationally requires continuous coordination and investment. To support this effort, the company has prioritized technology to enhance real-time visibility and efficiency across the supply chain.

Grupo CICE plans to finalize the terminal’s second phase, expand warehouse operations in the State of Mexico and Monterrey, launch a less-than-truckload service, and reconfigure Bahia Sur facilities as container activity shifts to Bahia Norte.