Mexican trucking companies launched an indefinite nationwide strike on Monday, protesting highway insecurity, cargo theft, extortion and rising operating costs, with demonstrations planned in major freight hubs including Nuevo Laredo, Reynosa, Monterrey, Tijuana and Mexico City, threatening disruptions to cross-border trucking and supply chains.
What Happened
According to foreign media reports, the strike was organized by the National Chamber of Freight Transportation (CANACAR) and other trucking organizations. Protests are expected to involve truck convoys and vehicles stationed along highways and near logistics facilities. Organizers called for peaceful demonstrations, though traffic delays and freight interruptions remain possible.
CANACAR President Augusto Ramos Melo said trucking companies are increasingly frustrated with cargo theft, violence against drivers, deteriorating highways, excessive towing fees and regulatory burdens. The organizations also oppose proposed changes to Mexico's 2027 fiscal package that would reduce eligibility for a tax credit covering certain highway toll expenses.
Mexico's Interior Ministry urged CANACAR to return to negotiations, saying several other transportation organizations had agreed to talks aimed at preventing disruptions to highways and commercial traffic. CANACAR maintained its call for demonstrations despite the government's appeal. As of Monday, the duration of the protests and their impact on commercial border crossings remained unclear.
Background
Mexico's trucking industry plays a critical role in moving automotive parts, manufactured goods, agricultural products and other freight between Mexico and the United States. Nuevo Laredo, across the border from Laredo, Texas, is the leading US inland port of entry and one of North America's busiest commercial corridors. The strike reflects long-standing pressure on Mexican road freight from security, infrastructure and regulatory costs.
Impact on Shippers
On transit times, cargo moving through Mexico by land or crossing the US-Mexico border may face congestion and longer queues, with uncertainty over throughput at key nodes such as Nuevo Laredo. On costs, carriers may adjust routes or impose surcharges if transport is disrupted, and towing and warehousing costs could also rise. On customs clearance, fluctuations in truck volumes at border crossings may affect declaration and inspection schedules, requiring shippers to allow more time for border processing.
Recommendations
Shippers with Mexico-related transport needs in the near term should confirm routes and border crossing arrangements with carriers in advance and build in additional safety stock and transit time buffers. For cargo transiting the US-Mexico border, verify documentation early and monitor border conditions, evaluate alternative routes if necessary, and maintain communication with consignees to avoid extra costs from delays.