Mexico Expands Seaport Amid U.S. Trade Uncertainties

MANZANILLO, Mexico, April 25 (Reuters) – A major expansion of Mexico’s largest seaport is currently under way as Mexican authorities are optimistic about the nation’s economic growth and the strength of global trade, despite the challenges posed by U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade wars.

The Mexican government aims to transform the Port of Manzanillo on the Pacific Coast into the busiest seaport in Latin America, capable of processing approximately 10 million 20-foot containers, according to the Mexican Navy, which oversees the port.

Currently, Manzanillo is already Mexico’s largest port and ranks third in Latin America, having handled nearly 4 million 20-foot containers in 2024. The expansion is part of a multibillion-dollar investment and is one of the key infrastructure projects initiated by President Claudia Sheinbaum.

As the International Monetary Fund recently downgraded growth forecasts for several countries, including a predicted 0.3% contraction for Mexico in 2025 due to U.S. tariffs affecting exports, Sheinbaum emphasized the importance of public investment to prevent economic downturns.

Sheinbaum stated that the ongoing improvements in Mexico’s ports, like Manzanillo, are essential for the success of her government’s “Plan Mexico,” aimed at bolstering domestic industry.

Julieta Juarez Ochoa, the port’s commercialization manager, noted that U.S. tariffs have not significantly impacted trade at Manzanillo. She confirmed that most imports come from Asia, primarily for domestic manufacturing.

“We don’t see any real impact (of the U.S. tariffs), and we don’t foresee a significant impact,” Ochoa stated, highlighting a strong confidence among local businesses.

The expansion project is scheduled for completion by the end of Sheinbaum’s term in 2030, reinforcing Mexico’s strategic position in international trade.