Mexico’s major commercial ports and their strategic role in industrial site selection

🌎 Mexico’s competitive advantage is not only based on its proximity to the United States but also on the robust infrastructure of its major commercial ports in Mexico. These hubs connect key industries with international markets.

🚗 Port of Altamira

Located in the state of Tamaulipas, the Port of Altamira has become a central hub for Mexico’s automotive logistics. In the first half of 2025, it handled over 222,000 vehicles, representing a 43% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The port is essential for exporting models from brands such as Stellantis, General Motors, Volkswagen, Kia, Nissan, Honda, BMW, and International to destinations in the United States, Europe, and South America.

Beyond its specialization in containerized cargo, Altamira also manages a wide range of industrial products, including auto parts, resins, titanium dioxide, and lumber. Its modern infrastructure and strategic location make it a vital logistics point for automotive, aerospace, and high-tech sectors. Proximity to the U.S. border further positions Altamira as an ideal export gateway for vehicles manufactured in Mexico, providing direct access to key markets across the Americas and Europe via the Gulf of Mexico.

🌾 Port of Manzanillo

Known as Mexico’s primary gateway for containerized cargo, the Port of Manzanillo, located in the state of Colima, is the country’s leader in trade with the Asia-Pacific region. In the first quarter of 2025, it reached a record 979,452 TEUs, solidifying its status as the most important port in Mexico in terms of containerized cargo.

Manzanillo is particularly crucial for the agroindustrial sector, facilitating the export of agricultural products such as fruits and vegetables to the United States and Asian markets. Its advanced infrastructure and efficient land connectivity make it a key location for companies aiming to optimize their supply chains, especially in the context of nearshoring.

🚙 Port of Veracruz

The Port of Veracruz is one of Mexico’s oldest and most traditional ports and plays a central role in automotive logistics. In 2023, it handled a total of 993,603 light vehicles, making it the leading port in this segment.

In addition to vehicles, Veracruz manages a wide variety of industrial products, including machinery, agricultural goods, and electronics. Its modern infrastructure and capacity to handle large volumes of cargo position it as a key port for sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and high-tech.

📊 Discover the benefits of locating your business near Mexico’s key ports

If you are looking to establish your company near Mexico’s major ports in Mexico, contact us to learn how our industrial parks near Altamira, Manzanillo, and Veracruz can optimize your supply chain and enhance your business competitiveness.

AI Shelter provides comprehensive shelter solutions, including operational and legal management, recruitment services, and logistics support to ensure your company sets up quickly and in full compliance with local regulations.

Reach out today to see how we can support your expansion in Mexico and help you leverage the strategic advantages of being close to these major commercial ports in Mexico.