Port reform in Mexico: 1993-2015

Mexican port reform was implemented in the 1990s with the objective of improving Mexico's competitiveness in the world trade market. This paper analyzes the process that was followed to implement port reforms in Mexico and the accomplishments through the review of statistical information. Practicing managers involved in freight transportation policy development could learn from the experiences related to the Mexican port reform process, particularly helpful elements such as the legal and institutional framework that allowed private-sector investment security, the port administration organization and its evolution in responding to changes in the environment, and a zero-labor-liability environment. Issues that still require attention include overall system-approach planning to achieve a true multimodal efficient transportation network and coordination among stakeholders to increase competitiveness.