What the U.S. Can Learn from Mexico’s Logistics Playbook

Mexico Logistics Sector

Learning from Mexico: A Logistics Wake-Up Call

As global supply chains grow more complex, logistics has become a defining pillar of national competitiveness. The U.S. boasts robust infrastructure and cutting-edge technology—but rising fuel costs, labor shortages, and environmental pressures are exposing cracks in the system.

Meanwhile, Mexico is quietly building a logistics framework that’s agile, efficient, and worthy of attention. As former Mayor of a border city in Arizona, Director of the Arizona Department of Commerce, and Chief of Staff at U.S. Customs and Border Protection, I’ve seen firsthand the critical role logistics plays in linking our economies.

At Intermestic Partners—the international business advisory firm I founded in 2011—we help global firms navigate these dynamics through smart, cross-border development strategies.

Mexico’s Strategic Edge

Despite resource constraints and political volatility, Mexico is innovating in ways the U.S. should note:

• Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): These ventures, especially in ports and logistics parks, are accelerating infrastructure growth.

• Multimodal transport: Mexico’s national rail operator Ferromex blends trucking and rail, reducing costs and expanding access.

• Digital transformation: Tech-led logistics tracking and data integration are becoming standard across major routes.

The Port of Veracruz, developed via a PPP model, is now the most advanced freight port in Latin America—transforming how Mexico moves goods globally.

Challenges to Adaptation

Can the U.S. replicate this success? Not without effort. Three major roadblocks stand in the way:

• Cultural shift: Embracing PPPs and greater tech adoption will require new mindsets across agencies and industries.

• Capital investment: Building infrastructure with shared risk demands significant political and financial will.

• Regulatory complexity: Harmonizing rules to enable innovation will take time—and leadership.

The Payoff

Still, the benefits are too large to ignore:

• Improved infrastructure

• Lower emissions through multimodal efficiency

• More resilient supply chains

Mexico’s progress shows what’s possible with clear strategy and commitment. It's time the U.S. considered similar paths forward.

A Call for Bold Collaboration

The logistics sector is no longer just about moving goods—it’s about shaping the future. Let’s take lessons from our neighbors and apply them with purpose.

Intermestic Partners works with leading national and international firms to unlock this potential. If you’re ready to rethink logistics for a more efficient, sustainable, and resilient future, let’s connect.