Truck Drivers Block Lazaro Cardenas Port Over Delays

Since the night of Sept. 3, a group of independent truck drivers has been blocking key access points to the Port of Lazaro Cardenas, Michoacan. The protesters denounce excessive waiting times of up to 36 hours to load and unload goods, as well as the lack of basic services such as restrooms and food facilities inside the port.

The blockade began at 11:00 p.m. at Gate 8, the entrance to the ASLA area of the National Port System Administration (ASIPONA) Lazaro Cardenas, used primarily for Container Terminals 1 and 2. Drivers argue that long delays negatively impact their health and working conditions since they have no access to adequate facilities during waiting periods.

By midday Thursday, the protest had expanded to Gate 5, the access point via Isla del Cayacal, further disrupting the entry and exit of cargo at the port.

Authorities, Associations Distance Themselves

ASIPONA acknowledges the protest but stated that cargo outflow operations remain active and that efforts are underway to minimize disruptions.

Separately, both the Lazaro Cardenas Port Operators and Logistics Services Association (AOPSL) and the Lazaro Cardenas Trucking Association (ATLAC) distanced themselves from the movement. Neither organization expressed support for the blockade, instead urging authorities to address the underlying problems fueling driver discontent.

“Constant delays in port operations generate growing dissatisfaction among drivers, which ultimately leads to protests such as the one we are witnessing today,” says AOPSL.

José Varela, President, ATLAC, says that his members are not involved in the protest and expressed hope that normal traffic would soon be restored to avoid further disruption of logistics activities.

A Growing Port Facing Pressure

The conflict comes at a pivotal moment for the Port of Lazaro Cardenas, which handled 16.4 million t of cargo between January and July 2025. Of this, 62% corresponded to imports, 28% to exports, and 10% to cabotage.

Containerized cargo led operations, reaching 1.48 million TEUs during the period, a 10% increase compared to the same months in 2024. The port also strengthened its role in the automotive sector, moving 407,897 vehicles, up 8% year-over-year. In addition, 1,038 vessels called at the port in the first seven months of 2025, representing a 6% increase compared to 2024.