Introduction to Claudia Sheinbaum and Her Government’s Rail Initiatives
Claudia Sheinbaum, the President of Mexico City, is leading her government in an ambitious and extensive rail network expansion project. The plan aims to invest 1.3 billion pesos in new passenger rail lines and cargo extensions for existing projects like the Tren Maya and Corredor Interoceánico.
Financial Commitment and Project Scope
This rail initiative represents a significant portion of the government’s budget for priority projects, accounting for 78.8% or approximately 149,000 million pesos out of the total 189,000 million pesos allocated for this year (2025). For the entire six-year term, the plan could consume between 43% and 52% of the estimated total cost of 1.3 billion pesos, depending on private investment and other factors.
Key Focus Areas
- Infrastructure development
- Sustainable mobility
- Regional development
- Recovery of passenger trains privatized in 1995
Progress and Challenges
The Subsecretary of Transportation, Néstor Núñez López, reported on October 22, 2025, that 1,600 properties have been secured, and permitting processes are advancing rapidly. Payments to landowners and ejido members are being made directly, with the support of the National Administration and Valuation Institute (Indaabin) and through the Fideicomiso Fondo Nacional de Fomento Ejidal (Fifonafe).
Despite the progress, specific figures on total payments or estimated amounts for landowners and ejido members have not been disclosed. With over 780 kilometers of advancements, the project shows significant development.
Regional Advancements
- Mexico City and the states of Hidalgo, Querétaro, Coahuila, Tamaulipas, and Nuevo León have made strides in the Tren del Golfo de México construction.
- Jalisco, San Luis Potosí, and Sinaloa are currently in the technical study phase.
Nationally, 23.14 million square meters of right-of-way have been released through agreements with 127 ejidos, 50 social assemblies, 1,108 individuals, and 239 legal entities.
Pros and Cons Analysis
An independent analysis by IMCO and the Mexican Construction Industry Chamber highlights both advantages and disadvantages of the plan:
- Pros: Job creation, improved connectivity and mobility, reduced travel times for passengers, decreased pollutant emissions, and promotion of mixed investment schemes.
- Cons: Limited government budget due to the lack of fiscal reform, potential reduction in resources for health, education, and other needs, limited train speeds, risk of underutilization if demand is insufficient, potential inclusion in the “white elephant” category, uncertain returns, and possible overspending.
- Added 306,000 new customers
- Generated revenue of 1,095 million USD, a 7% year-over-year increase
- Achieved an operational Ebitda of 199 million USD
- Maintained positive operating income for seven consecutive quarters
Conclusion
The extensive rail network plan has the potential for positive outcomes but also carries significant risks. The success or failure of this initiative could lead to enhanced connectivity, mobility, and productivity or exacerbate the already challenging public finance situation.
AT&T Mexico’s Strong Third Quarter Performance
Brief Overview
In unrelated news, AT&T Mexico, led by Mónica Aspe, reported a successful third quarter with increased customers, revenue, and operational profitability.
Key Achievements
Despite market challenges, Aspe emphasized that AT&T Mexico’s results reflect a well-executed strategy and solid implementation.
