Mexico Tackles Trade, Transport Security: Infrastructure Week

This week, Mexico took a firm stance on trade practices, launching antidumping probes against Chinese cardboard and plastics. Meanwhile, the freight industry is ramping up security and efficiency with cutting-edge technology, but transporters and merchants are taking to the streets, demanding action against extortion and corruption. 

Meanwhile, President Claudia Sheinbaum pushes for stricter truck safety measures, while rail infrastructure gets a boost with four new passenger train routes set to begin construction in 2025.

Ready for more? Here is your Week in Logistics!

Mexico Opens Antidumping Probes on Chinese Cardboard, Plastics

Mexico’s Ministry of Economy is investigating alleged dumping of Chinese cardboard and polycarbonate sheets, citing harm to local producers. If confirmed, antidumping duties may be imposed to restore fair competition.

Advanced Tech Enhances Safety, Efficiency in Freight Transport

Mexico’s freight transportation industry faces significant safety challenges, with cargo theft costing MX$7 billion annually. To enhance security and efficiency, companies are adopting telematics, IoT, and advanced monitoring technologies like GPS tracking, smart cameras, and electronic locks. AI and predictive analytics can further optimize logistics, reducing risks and improving productivity.

Carriers, Merchants Strike: Demand Security and Justice

Transporters, merchants, and business owners in Mexico staged a large-scale protest against extortion, corruption, and bureaucratic inefficiencies, blocking major highways into Mexico City. Organized by the Alliance of Autonomous Truckers of Mexico (AAA), the demonstrators demand government intervention and increased security. Authorities are negotiating to restore mobility while addressing concerns.

Sheinbaum Reviews Measures to Reduce Truck Accidents on Highways

President Claudia Sheinbaum is addressing highway safety concerns caused by overweight trucks by working with the SICT to strengthen regulations and enforcement. Measures under consideration include reinstating weigh stations, introducing traffic enforcement cameras, and requiring freight vehicles to display license plates on their roofs for better surveillance.

Construction of Four New Passenger Trains to Begin in 2025: ARTF

The Mexican Railway Transport Regulatory Agency (ARTF) has announced the construction of four new passenger train routes in 2025 to enhance intercity connectivity and reduce highway congestion. The AIFA-Pachuca train will begin construction in March, followed by the Mexico City-Queretaro train in April, and the Queretaro-Irapuato and Saltillo-Nuevo Laredo routes in July. These projects aim to improve travel efficiency, safety, and sustainability while supporting economic growth through railway infrastructure development.

Sheinbaum Oversees Expansion of the Port of Veracruz

Sheinbaum visited Veracruz to oversee the port’s expansion, a MX$7 billion (US$410 million) project led by Grupo CICE, set to begin operations in April 2025. The terminal will boost maritime trade, create over 1,700 jobs, and enhance regional connectivity. During her visit, Sheinbaum discussed railway and road infrastructure improvements, prioritizing projects like the Nuevo Laredo and Nogales railway corridors, the Mayan Train’s freight segment, and key highway upgrades in Veracruz.

Alpha H2 Begins Hydrogen Injection Trials in Mexico

Alpha H2 Limited has launched hydrogen-on-demand injection system trials with two major Mexican transport companies, marking its expansion into Latin America. The trials aim to validate the technology’s potential to reduce emissions and fuel consumption in a fleet of up to 12,400 vehicles. Partnering with GreenH2 LATAM, Alpha H2 is deploying its solutions across multiple countries, offering a scalable, cost-effective approach to sustainable mobility.