Contecon Manzanillo achieves record rail cargo throughput, eyes expansion

Contecon Manzanillo (CMSA), an affiliate of International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI), announced a remarkable achievement in January, handling 20,400 TEUs of rail cargo.

This volume represents a 68 percent surge compared to January 2023 and marks the highest rail throughput for the Port of Manzanillo to date.

José Antonio Contreras, CEO of CMSA, shed light on the company’s strategic growth.

“We started a growth plan together with customers and FERROMEX in 2021, which allowed us to gradually increase service volumes and reliability. Last January, we were able to move 23 percent of import cargo by rail and set a record for CMSA and the Port of Manzanillo.”

In collaboration with CMA CGM, CMSA launched the first block train service from the Second Specialized Container Terminal (TEC-II) at the Port of Manzanillo to Valle de Mexico last year. The service expanded to include Monterrey, linking major consumption and production centers across the country.

Looking ahead, CMSA has ambitious plans to commence the expansion of its 2.2-kilometer rail tracks and acquire new loading and unloading equipment. This investment aims to more than double the terminal’s rail capacity by 2025.

“Our goal is to double our rail volume by 2025 and take advantage of the resulting logistical and environmental benefits,” Mr. Contreras emphasized.

Container movement via rail is a strategic focus for CMSA, offering a logistical, efficient, and competitive alternative for transporting goods over long distances from the Pacific Coast to key inland hubs.

The anticipated rail expansion is set to enhance connectivity for areas like the State of Mexico, Nuevo León, San Luis de Potosí, and Querétaro, which are significant receivers of Asian imports entering through Manzanillo.

The shift towards rail freight is expected to alleviate road congestion in Manzanillo, contributing to sustainability and supporting the terminal’s future growth. By boosting cargo movement via rail, CMSA not only fosters terminal efficiency but also stimulates regional and national economic development.