Background on the Situation
The port of Manzanillo, a crucial maritime entry point for Mexico, has been experiencing disruptions since May 12 when customs workers went on strike. The protest demanded better working conditions, additional staff hiring, and extended customs office hours. Although the federal operation removed strikers after three days and resumed customs activities, normalcy has yet to be restored.
Economic Impact and Calls for Intervention
According to Guillermo del Río, president of the Index Occidente (Association of Industries Maquiladoras y Manufactureras de Exportación), the initial estimate of economic losses was around $150 million, affecting only their member companies. However, as the situation prolonged, other sectors were impacted, causing losses beyond the initial assessment.
Del Río Ochoa emphasized the need for federal authorities to intervene and accelerate resolutions at the Manzanillo port, stating: “The port of Manzanillo is the primary maritime entry point for shipments in our country, handling 41% of all merchandise arriving by sea. We must prevent this situation from affecting national production.”
Companies in the sector have resorted to air freight, which is expensive and not feasible for all businesses due to limited capacities.
Justification for Military Intervention
Alberto Uribe, the coordinator of the Corredor del Bienestar Pacífico (Welfare Pacific Corridor) encompassing Jalisco, Michoacán, Colima, and Nayarit states, explained that the economic consequences of the strike were severe for numerous companies still struggling to catch up.
Uribe, a federal economy secretariat functionary, defended the military’s actions in the Manzanillo customs office, citing the necessity to address corruption and criminal organizations:
“Yes, the military intervention is justified because you need to listen to workers, but there are also realities with infiltrations requiring stricter security and more rigorous controls.”
Uribe highlighted the importance of security over logistical concerns, acknowledging that military or naval personnel prioritize safety. He also pointed out minor challenges allowing criminal organizations to infiltrate operations, making security a top priority.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main issue causing disruptions at the Manzanillo port? Customs workers went on strike demanding better working conditions, staff hiring, and extended customs office hours.
- What is the estimated economic loss due to the port disruption? The losses have surpassed $150 million, affecting various sectors beyond the initial assessment of Index Occidente member companies.
- Why is the Manzanillo port significant for Mexico’s maritime shipments? It is the primary entry point for sea-based merchandise, handling 41% of all shipments arriving in Mexico.
- What justifies the military’s intervention in customs operations? The presence of corruption and criminal organizations necessitates stricter security measures, with military personnel prioritizing safety over logistics.
