Tariffs, Connectivity Projects: The Week in Logistics

This week, new tariffs on textiles and Vietnamese steel spark debates over protecting local industries versus sustaining exports, while the Chalco-Santa Martha Trolleybus and Mexicable Line III projects promise transformative connectivity for thousands of residents. Meanwhile, President Claudia Sheinbaum’s inauguration of the Jala-Puerto Vallarta Highway accelerates regional travel and growth, and Ferromex’s Vicente Guerrero project reaffirms urban modernization plans in Ciudad Juarez. 

Ready for more? Here is your Week in Logistics!

Companies Struggle as New Tariffs Disrupt Textile, Manufacturing

Mexico’s new tariffs on textiles and manufactured goods aim to protect its struggling industry from unfair competition but have disrupted supply chains and endangered jobs. While businesses acknowledge the need for action, they urge collaboration to mitigate economic impacts and sustain exports.

Mexico Imposes 36.23% Tariff on Vietnamese Steel Wire Imports

Mexico imposed a 36.23% tariff on steel wire imports from Vietnam to counter dumping practices that harm local producers. The measure, effective for five years, reflects broader policies to protect domestic industries, including recent tariff increases on textiles and manufactured goods.

Chalco-Santa Martha Trolleybus to be Completed by April 2025

Sheinbaum announced that the Chalco-Santa Martha Trolleybus will open in April 2025, with remaining stations completed later. Delayed by drainage pipeline issues, the project features an electric transit model with dedicated infrastructure, integrating with existing trolleybus and Metro lines for improved connectivity.

State of Mexico Starts Construction of Mexicable Line III

The State of Mexico has begun constructing Mexicable Line III, a 9.5km cable car system with 10 stations to improve mobility for over 700,000 residents in Naucalpan. Connecting remote areas to the Cuatro Caminos terminal, it will cut travel times from one hour to 30 minutes, offering efficient, secure, and accessible public transportation.

Sheinbaum Inaugurates Jala-Puerto Vallarta Highway Final Stretch

President Sheinbaum inaugurated the final stretch of the Jala-Puerto Vallarta Highway, reducing travel time between Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta to 2.5 hours. The 33.2km stretch, costing US$98.68 million, includes eight bridges, 13 overpasses, and a branch to Puerto Vallarta Airport. This project boosts regional connectivity and economic growth, with additional infrastructure plans underway for Nayarit.

Ferromex Keeps Federal Investment in Vicente Guerrero Project

Federal investment for the Vicente Guerrero Bridge in Ciudad Juarez will remain in the city, with Ferromex exploring an underground solution to improve urban-railway coexistence. This approach aligns with legal requirements and urban development goals. The project aims to modernize city infrastructure and address mobility challenges.

Boon Raises US$20.5 Million for Commercial Fleet Efficiency

Boon, an AI-powered workflow platform for commercial fleets, has raised US$20.5 million in Seed and Series A funding to expand its offerings, enhance AI capabilities, and triple its workforce. Designed to optimize fleet operations, Boon automates tasks like fuel optimization, billing, and compliance, reducing costs and boosting efficiency.