The Latest Advances in the Tehuantepec Isthmus Interoceanic Corridor: Mexican Logistics

#### New Project in Mexican Logistics The **Tehuantepec Isthmus Interoceanic Corridor (CIIT)** positions itself as one of Mexico's most ambitious and strategic initiatives in terms of logistics and economic development. Now under the leadership of President Claudia Sheinbaum, this megaproject seeks to consolidate itself as a multimodal logistics platform that connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, strengthening port capacity and creating an industrial axis in the south of the country. Covering the states of Veracruz, Oaxaca, Tabasco, and Chiapas, the project not only promises to boost international trade but also drive the welfare of local communities through 12 Development Poles for Welfare (Podebis), becoming a key engine for sustainable growth. ## **A Multimodal Logistics Platform** The CIIT integrates various means of transportation —maritime, railway, and terrestrial— to optimize the flow of goods between the two oceans. This corridor has three main railway lines, of which **Line Z**, connecting Coatzacoalcos (Veracruz) with Salina Cruz (Oaxaca), has managed to move more than 231 thousand tons of cargo and 65 thousand passengers. **Line FA**, which connects Coatzacoalcos with Palenque (Chiapas), operates fully, while **Line K**, connecting Ixtepec (Oaxaca) with Ciudad Hidalgo (Chiapas), shows 58.5% progress in its rehabilitation. These lines are essential to consolidate the region as a strategic node for international logistics, allowing efficient and economical connection between Asia, America, and Europe. ## **Multimodal Isthmus Developer: A Strategic Consortium** The Podebis concession is handled by **Multimodal Isthmus Developer**, a consortium formed by Indi, Carso, ICA, and Mota Engil. This group will supervise the development of poles like **Coatzacoalcos I, II and Salina Cruz**, which will be nodal points for the arrival and departure of goods. An average investment of **1,033 million pesos** per pole is estimated, with a master plan led by the Ministry of the Navy that foresees their detonation within five years. These poles will cover about **82 hectares** and will be focused on key industries, such as: * Treatment, import and export of hydrocarbons. * Natural gas liquefaction. * Concrete production and distribution. * LP Gas commercialization. * Real estate development. * Vehicle and auto parts commercialization and distribution. This industrial approach seeks to maximize the region's economic potential, attracting investments and generating employment for thousands of families. ## **Strengthened Ports for Global Commerce** In addition to railway advances and Podebis, the CIIT contemplates significant improvements in the region's key ports. Among the most outstanding projects include: 1. **Port of Veracruz:** **1,800 million pesos** will be allocated to breakwater infrastructure construction. 2. **Port of Progreso:** With a mixed investment of **7,225 million pesos**, a platform for new terminals will be built. 3. **Port of Lázaro Cárdenas:** This port will see expansions that include new customs installations and roadway improvements. 4. **Cruise terminal in Acapulco:** An effort to diversify economic activities in the region. These actions will not only strengthen Mexico's logistics capacity but also position the country as a key link point in global supply chains. ## **Socioeconomic Impact: The Development Poles for Welfare** The 12 **Development Poles for Welfare** are outlined as an essential component of the project, not only to boost logistics activity but also to transform living conditions in Isthmus communities. These poles seek to promote balanced development by offering access to economic and social opportunities to Mexico's most disadvantaged southern regions. With a strategy that combines world-class infrastructure and a focus on social welfare, the CIIT promises to catalyze sustained regional growth, aligning with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). ## **Challenges and Perspectives** Despite advances, the CIIT faces significant challenges. One of the most notable is the rehabilitation of Line K, which has required additional spending of **65 billion pesos** due to structural problems in slopes and sharp curves. These setbacks underscore the need for efficient and transparent management in work execution. On the other hand, the integration of advanced logistics technologies, such as automation and artificial intelligence, will be key to guaranteeing the corridor's competitiveness in the global market. ## **The CIIT: A National Security Project** The CIIT not only has economic implications but also strategic ones. Under Claudia Sheinbaum's administration, this project has been classified as a national security priority. This designation ensures that necessary resources and efforts are allocated to its development, protecting Mexico's energy and economic sovereignty. Additionally, strengthening logistics infrastructure will allow the country to depend less on traditional commercial routes, thus diversifying its options in international trade. ## **A Promising Future for Mexico** The Tehuantepec Isthmus Interoceanic Corridor represents a unique opportunity to transform Mexico's south-southeast region into an engine of economic, social, and logistics development. With the integration of ports, railways, and industrial poles, this megaproject seeks to position Mexico as a key logistics hub in global trade, while promoting the welfare of its local communities. While the challenges are significant, the projected benefits are enormous. The CIIT's success will not only depend on the infrastructure built but also on the government's and private sector's capacity to work together, prioritizing sustainability, innovation, and social equity. In the coming years, this corridor will not only connect oceans but also opportunities, leading Mexico toward a more prosperous and connected future.