Background on Index Occidente and the Manzanillo Port
Index Occidente, an association representing industries in the western region of Mexico, has been urging for the normalization of operations at the port of Manzanillo due to a prolonged disruption caused by customs workers’ strike since May 12. The economic losses have already surpassed the initial estimate of $150 million, affecting not only Index members but also other sectors.
Economic Impact and Calls for Federal Intervention
According to Guillermo del Río, president of Index Occidente, the preliminary estimate suggested resolving the issue within two to three weeks. However, after a recent meeting, it is now estimated that normal operations will take approximately five weeks to resume. Del Río emphasized the need for federal authorities to intervene and accelerate the response in Manzanillo’s port, as it has become a significant obstacle to national production.
The port of Manzanillo is the primary entry point for maritime shipments in Mexico, handling 41% of all merchandise arriving by sea. Del Río urged authorities to allocate more resources and expedite the process, as delays impact the entire national production.
Justification for Military Intervention
Alberto Uribe, the coordinator of the Corredor del Bienestar Pacífico (Pacific Well-being Corridor) encompassing Jalisco, Michoacán, Colima, and Nayarit states, explained that the customs workers’ strike in Manzanillo was detrimental to numerous businesses still struggling to catch up after the three-day stoppage.
Uribe, a federal economy secretariat functionary, justified the military’s actions in the Manzanillo customs office as necessary to address corruption and criminal organizations present in the area.
“Yes, the military intervention is justified because you need to listen to workers, but there are also realities where infiltration occurs, requiring tighter security and more stringent controls,” Uribe stated.
He highlighted the importance of security over logistics, noting that military or naval personnel prioritize safety. Uribe acknowledged the need to elevate logistical levels in the port while addressing minor security challenges posed by criminal organizations.
Port Operations Disruption and Current Status
The customs workers’ strike on May 12 led to the paralysis of Manzanillo port operations, with workers demanding better working conditions, personnel hiring, and extended customs hours. Although workers were removed after three days during a federal operation, normal operations have yet to resume.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is Index Occidente? Index Occidente is an association representing industries in western Mexico, including Jalisco, which has been advocating for the resumption of operations at the Manzanillo port.
- Why is the Manzanillo port crucial for Mexico? The port of Manzanillo is the primary maritime entry point for shipments in Mexico, handling 41% of all merchandise arriving by sea.
- What caused the port disruption? Customs workers went on strike on May 12, demanding better working conditions, personnel hiring, and extended customs hours.
- Why is military intervention justified? Authorities believe it’s necessary to address corruption and criminal organizations present in the Manzanillo customs office.
- What is the current status of port operations? Despite federal intervention and the removal of striking workers, normal port operations have yet to resume.
