APM Terminals to Modernize Puerto Progreso with MX$3 Billion Plan

APM Terminals Mexico has announced a comprehensive modernization plan for its Puerto Progreso container terminal, backed by long-term staged investments of about MX$3 billion (US$163.1 million) over the next 19 years. The project aims to transform the port into a benchmark hub for innovation, technology, and sustainability in southeastern Mexico.

“We want to join Yucatan’s promising future and support the progress of its people. We will invest to boost the state’s economic and commercial development while continuing to share our expertise and create synergies with authorities, local businesses, and port service providers. Our goal is to establish Puerto Progreso as a benchmark in port innovation and technology: a more efficient and sustainable port, benefiting Mexico and all Mexicans,” says Beatriz Yera, Managing Director, APM Terminals Mexico.

The plan encompasses infrastructure upgrades, advanced technology implementation, and equipment renewal to deliver more efficient operations, higher safety standards, full logistical visibility, and improved service reliability.

The initiative also includes a strong social and economic development component, with the creation of an estimated 230 direct jobs and more than 1,100 indirect jobs. The investment will integrate renewable energy use, consolidating Progreso as both a sustainable and competitive logistics hub.

“I am proud of the long-term project at APM Terminals Yucatan, a pivotal step in modernising infrastructure, boosting capacity and strengthening Mexico’s position in global trade. This investment introduces new equipment, smarter terminal design and advances our decarbonization strategy,” says Keith Svendsen, CEO, APM Terminals.

APM Terminals and the Government of Yucatan signed a Memorandum of Understanding to align the project with the state’s economic and logistical strategy. This collaboration is expected to enhance regional industrial growth, strengthen maritime connectivity, and position Puerto Progreso as a critical gateway between Mexico, the European Union, and the Americas.

“Today, we open a new chapter in Yucatan’s history: the port that connects us to the world will become an international logistics hub with a private investment of MX$3.2 billion. This is not only an investment in steel and cement, but in our people, our future, and our social peace,” says Governor of Yucatan Joaquín Díaz.

Díaz highlights that Yucatan offers security, social stability, and qualified human talent, making it a trustworthy destination for investment.

The Mayor of Progreso, Erik Rihani, says that the modernization marks a “new stage” for the community, catalyzing new opportunities for residents.

APM Terminals Mexico reaffirmed that operations in Puerto Progreso will continue to follow Lean principles to continuously improve efficiency, while fostering synergies with local businesses, authorities, and service providers.

With this long-term plan, Puerto Progreso is set to evolve into a key logistics platform for southeastern Mexico, supporting trade growth, local employment, and sustainable development, while firmly positioning Yucatán as a reliable hub in global supply chains.

National Context: Port System Modernization

The announcement aligns with the federal government’s broader port strategy. In July, authorities unveiled a national plan to modernize Mexico’s port system, targeting six key ports, including Progreso. The initiative aims to boost maritime competitiveness, improve logistics infrastructure, and attract record levels of investment, combining MX$55.2 billion (US$2.96 billion) in public funding with MX$241 billion (US$12.94 billion) in private investment, MBN reports.

In Progreso, development is already underway. The state government has invested MX$1.5 billion to begin dredging the navigation channel, scheduled for completion in January. The federal government will then invest MX$9.2 billion in additional works. The project also includes the creation of two 40ha platforms to expand port capacity for cargo, cruise ships, and fuel shipments. As the only port serving the Mexican Caribbean, Progreso is positioned to become the primary maritime gateway for the Yucatan Peninsula.

APM Terminals’ Broader Mexico Investments

Beyond Progreso, APM Terminals is also reinforcing its presence on the Pacific coast. The company is investing MX$2.87 billion in the expansion of its terminal at the Port of Lazaro Cardenas, with 50% of the work already completed.