INITIATIVES FOR COLLABORATION BETWEEN THE PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTORS TO IMPROVE LOGISTICS AND CUSTOMS INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICES

Mexico has seen significant growth in its logistics and customs infrastructure in recent years, which has been crucial for maintaining and enhancing its competitiveness in global trade. This development relies not only on government investments but also on active collaboration with the private sector through strategic alliances aimed at improving efficiency, reducing costs, and promoting sustainability in logistics processes.

Public-private partnership (PPP) initiatives have played a fundamental role in modernizing ports, airports, and customs processes. These partnerships enable Mexico to advance key infrastructure projects, such as the expansion of the Manzanillo and Veracruz ports, the implementation of more efficient technologies in customs, and the transition to more sustainable logistics through the use of renewable energy and low-emission vehicles.

Through these joint efforts, Mexico is not only optimizing its logistics infrastructure to facilitate trade but also establishing a model of cooperation that can be replicated in other sectors, driving competitiveness and economic growth in the country.

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Logistics Infrastructure Projects

Mexico has been working on logistics infrastructure projects to improve the transportation of goods. The government has sought partnerships with private companies to modernize ports and airports, increasing their capacity and efficiency. Notable projects include the expansion of key ports such as Manzanillo, Altamira, and Veracruz. Additionally, cargo terminals at Mexico City International Airport (AICM) are being modernized. These initiatives enhance competitiveness and facilitate access to global markets.

For instance, at the Manzanillo port, the National Port System Administration (Asipona) is constructing a road to provide access to the northern area of the port, aiming to eliminate the long lines currently observed at the southern access point for freight transport. Maintenance dredging is also planned at the San Pedrito Inner Port and Laguna de Cuyutlán (API Manzanillo 2021-2024), with an investment of $130 million. Furthermore, the Specialized Container Terminal (TEC) II in Manzanillo, owned by Contecon Manzanillo, is investing $230 million to expand its TEU handling capacity.

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Customs Modernization

One of Mexico's most significant challenges is the inefficiency of its customs systems, which impacts foreign trade. Customs facilities, such as those in Nuevo Laredo—one of the most important in terms of VAT collection—face infrastructure and outdated technology issues. To address these, the federal government and private sector are working on modernizing these facilities. This includes implementing advanced technologies for goods inspections, such as scanners and automated systems, to improve security and efficiency. The creation of the National Customs Agency, especially to manage the high volume of operations at the northern border, marks a significant step in this effort.

The implementation of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program allows companies to meet security and efficiency standards. Certified companies benefit from streamlined procedures, reduced wait times, and greater transparency, lowering costs and facilitating foreign trade. Through the AEO system, companies manage import and export procedures electronically, optimizing customs clearance processes and ensuring regulatory compliance. This system centralizes various commercial processes in a single portal, enabling efficient management of trade-related data. This initiative has been supported by both the government and private actors in the logistics and customs sectors.

The electronic single window platform, integrating various customs procedures and reducing bureaucracy, exemplifies collaboration between the Mexican government and tech companies. It enables the digitization of customs processes, enhancing efficiency, reducing human error, and facilitating international trade. Private companies have been pivotal in developing and implementing the technology behind the single window, collaborating with the government to create a more modern and agile system.

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Sustainability in Logistics

Mexico is adopting measures to make logistics more sustainable, reducing the carbon footprint and improving operational efficiency. Businesses, in collaboration with the government, are adopting clean technologies, such as electric and low-emission vehicles, for goods transportation. Logistic routes are being optimized to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Public-private partnerships are also driving the use of renewable energy, with solar panels and wind energy being utilized in distribution centers and warehouses.

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Improvements in Railway and Road Infrastructure

Railway infrastructure has also been a focal point of collaboration between the public and private sectors. The Mexican government has encouraged partnerships with private companies to improve railway networks and connectivity in the northern region of the country, facilitating the transportation of goods to ports and border crossings. This modernization effort also includes enhancements to road infrastructure, particularly those connecting key industrial and port areas.

The government and private enterprises have worked together to expand the railway network in northern Mexico, one of the most strategic areas for trade with the United States. These efforts include upgrading existing tracks and establishing new routes, particularly in regions near ports and industrial hubs. As a result, transportation times have decreased, and freight capacity has increased, benefiting trade significantly.

At key locations, such as Tepalcates, intermodal terminals connecting railroads with road transport have been established. Since 2022, Ferromex has played a pivotal role in infrastructure development with the launch of the Tepalcates Intermodal Terminal complex. This project has significantly strengthened port and rail operations by centralizing the handling of empty containers, optimizing logistics for both exports and imports. The terminal has helped decongest container traffic for exports while enabling the efficient management of empty containers from imports, improving flow and reducing wait times at entry and exit points across the country.

In parallel with railway development, road infrastructure has also undergone significant upgrades. These improvements enable better connections between major industrial and port areas and facilitate the transportation of goods throughout the country.

The government has initiated projects to rehabilitate and modernize the country's major highways and roads, particularly those connecting major production zones with key ports like Veracruz, Lázaro Cárdenas, and Manzanillo. These enhancements not only reduce transit times but also improve route safety, which is crucial for transporting high-value goods.

Roadways connecting Mexico to the United States are vital for trade between the two countries. Investments have been made to improve the flow of goods in these regions, especially in Nuevo Laredo, one of the most critical customs points for U.S.-Mexico trade. Modernizing road access and upgrading customs infrastructure are essential to reducing wait times and operational costs in these areas.

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In conclusion, collaborative initiatives between the public and private sectors in Mexico have been pivotal in enhancing the country's infrastructure and logistics services. Through strategic partnerships, significant advancements have been achieved in modernizing ports, airports, and transportation networks, optimizing the efficiency of foreign trade, and boosting Mexico's competitiveness in the global market.

Key projects, such as the expansion of strategic ports, the adoption of advanced customs technologies, and the modernization of railway and road infrastructure, have transformed the country's logistics landscape. Furthermore, efforts toward more sustainable logistics, including the use of renewable energy and low-emission vehicles, underscore Mexico's commitment to sustainability in trade processes.

While these achievements reflect a progressive and successful effort, the journey toward fully optimized logistics and customs infrastructure remains challenging, particularly regarding the integration of emerging technologies and overcoming regulatory obstacles. Nevertheless, public-private partnerships continue to prove effective in addressing these challenges, ensuring Mexico remains a key player in international trade while fostering inclusive and sustainable economic development.

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