Rail Projects, Manzanillo Record, Trade Risks: Week in Logistics

This week in logistics, Nuevo Leon relaunched its Logistics Cluster but raised alarms over a shortage of bilingual drivers as new US visa rules reshape cross-border trade. Grupo Carso secured a multibillion-peso contract to build a stretch of the Saltillo-Nuevo Laredo train, while the Port of Manzanillo set a fresh TEU record and pushed forward with billion-dollar expansion plans. 

In the United States, CBP tightened scrutiny on Greenbrier over alleged tariff evasion, underscoring trade compliance risks.

Ready for more? Here is your Week in Logistics!

UPS Cancels Acquisition of Estafeta

UPS cancels Estafeta acquisition after failing to meet closing terms, reshaping its Mexico growth strategy

Nuevo Leon Relaunches Logistics Cluster Amid US Visa Rules

The Ministry of Economy of Nuevo Leon has relaunched the state’s Logistics Cluster, highlighting its 10%-11% GDP share, US$60 billion in exports, and 80,000 jobs. Leaders warn of a worsening bilingual driver shortage as new US visa and English-speaking rules threaten cross-border trade.

Grupo Carso Wins Contract for Saltillo–Nuevo Laredo Train

Grupo Carso’s CICSA and FCC Construcción won a MX$31.84 billion contract to design and build 111km of the Saltillo–Nuevo Laredo passenger train, part of the federal Tren del Norte project, set to boost connectivity, jobs, and mobility across northern Mexico.

Manzanillo Port Breaks Record With 346,000 TEUs in August

The Port of Manzanillo set a record in August 2025 with 346,257 TEUs, reinforcing its role as Mexico’s top container hub. Backed by over MX$111 billion in planned investments, the port is on track to near 4M TEUs in 2025, boosting trade and supply chain capacity.

CBP Probes Greenbrier for Alleged Rail Tariff Evasion

CBP preliminarily found that Greenbrier Companies (GBX) may have evaded antidumping duties on freight rail couplers, imposing interim measures while the investigation continues. A final ruling could bring major penalties and retroactive duty liabilities.

Mexico Advances AIFA–Pachuca, Mexico City–Queretaro Rail Projects

SICT, the State of Mexico, and 14 municipalities signed an agreement to release land for the AIFA–Pachuca and Mexico City–Queretaro passenger trains, streamlining right-of-way clearance to advance two key federal rail projects.

Mexico–Toluca Train “El Insurgente” Reaches 98% Completion

SICT reports the Mexico–Toluca Interurban Train, El Insurgente, is 98% complete. The 58km electrified line will carry 230,000 passengers daily, cutting travel times between Toluca and Mexico City once extended to Observatorio.

Mexico–Queretaro Passenger Train to Be Completed in 2027

President Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed that construction of the Mexico–Queretaro passenger train is underway, with completion set for 2027. The project will reestablish Queretaro as a hub for passenger rail while complementing freight transport and is backed by major infrastructure, housing, and social programs in the state.