ANIERM’s Anniversary, New Rail Developments: The Weekly Roundup

In this week’s roundup, ANIERM celebrated its 80th anniversary by highlighting its vital role in navigating the changing landscape of international commerce. Meanwhile, the Mexican government has commenced preliminary works on the Mexico-Queretaro Train project, which promises to boost community access and sustainability across the region.

In other news, in an effort to improve public health and ease congestion, the US General Services Administration (GSA) is taking steps to eliminate commercial cargo operations at the Bridge of the Americas (BOTA), with the support of El Paso City Council.

Ready for more? Here is your Week in Logistics!

ANIERM Celebrates 80 Years Promoting Mexican Trade

The National Association of Importers and Exporters of Mexico (ANIERM) celebrated its 80th anniversary on Oct. 10, emphasizing its role in international trade amid the evolving landscape of nearshoring opportunities and challenges. A collaboration agreement was signed during the anniversary event, bringing  together ANIERM and the National Chamber of Commerce (CANACO) to promote arbitration as a means for resolving business disputes.

Authorities Begin Preliminary Works on Mexico-Queretaro Train

The Mexican government has begun preliminary work on the Mexico-Queretaro Train, a 225km passenger rail project designed to connect Mexico City with the State of Mexico, Hidalgo, and Queretaro. Expected to benefit nearly 6 million people, the train aims to improve community connectivity, enhance safety, reduce carbon footprints, and create approximately 490,000 jobs—165,000 direct and 325,000 indirect.

GSA, El Paso Council Seek to Eliminate Cargo Traffic at BOTA

The GSA plans to eliminate commercial cargo operations at the BOTA in El Paso, Texas, to ease traffic congestion and improve public health. This initiative, outlined in a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), will redirect cargo to nearby ports. The El Paso City Council has expressed strong support for the plan, emphasizing its economic benefits and potential to reduce emissions. A public meeting on the draft EIS is scheduled for Oct. 17, 2024, for community input.

Senate Approves Reform Prioritizing Rail System Development

The Senate’s joint commissions have unanimously approved a constitutional reform prioritizing the railway system for national development, encompassing both freight and passenger transport. This reform reinstates state control over passenger services, allowing the federal government to assign public companies or grant concessions to private entities. Congress must adjust relevant laws within 180 days, with a clear focus on prioritizing passenger services. 

FEMSA Sells Solistica Operations to Grupo Traxión for US$208 Million

FEMSA has signed a definitive agreement to sell part of its logistics operations under the Solistica brand to Grupo Traxión for about US$208.08 million in cash and debt. This transaction, part of FEMSA’s restructuring plan, FEMSA Forward, includes Solistica’s transportation management and contract logistics services in Mexico, Brazil, and Colombia, while excluding its less-than-truckload operations in Brazil. 

Tamaulipas to Boost Role as Mexico’s Trade Hub

Ninfa Cantú, Minister of Economy of Tamaulipas, has launched the “Tamaulipas, Plataforma Logística de México” program to promote the state’s competitive advantages in foreign trade, such as its strategic location and robust infrastructure. The initiative aims to establish Tamaulipas as the leading choice for export and import companies in Mexico.