Mexican trucking companies launched an indefinite nationwide strike Monday protesting highway insecurity, cargo theft, extortion and rising operating costs, with demonstrations planned in major freight hubs along the U.S.-Mexico border.
The strike, organized by the National Chamber of Freight Transportation (CANACAR) and other trucking organizations, calls for demonstrations across Mexico, including Nuevo Laredo, Reynosa, Monterrey, Tijuana and Mexico City.
The protests could disrupt freight transportation through some of North America’s busiest commercial corridors, particularly in Nuevo Laredo, across the border from Laredo, Texas, the nation’s leading inland port of entry.
CANACAR President Augusto Ramos Melo said trucking companies have grown increasingly frustrated with cargo theft, violence against drivers, deteriorating highways, excessive towing fees and regulatory burdens.
The organizations are also protesting proposed changes to Mexico’s 2027 fiscal package that would reduce eligibility for a tax credit covering certain highway toll expenses.
The demonstrations were expected to involve truck convoys and vehicles stationed along highways, near logistics facilities and other strategic freight locations. Organizers have called for peaceful protests, although traffic delays and interruptions to freight movements remain possible.
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.
The strike comes amid mounting pressure on Mexico’s trucking industry, which plays a critical role in moving automotive parts, manufactured goods, agricultural products and other freight between Mexico and the United States.
The duration of the protests and their impact on commercial border crossings remained unclear Monday.
Why it matters: An extended trucking strike in Mexico could disrupt cross-border supply chains, delay shipments through major Texas and California trade gateways and increase transportation costs for U.S. importers and manufacturers.
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