Mexico’s Tren Maya Could Be Linked to the Port of Belize

Officials from Belize and the Mexican state of Quintana Roo met in Belize City on Thursday, as both sides moved to strengthen economic ties and update a long-standing bilateral cooperation agreement.

Discussions focused on turning long-term plans into practical projects, especially in trade, investment, and infrastructure.

One of the ideas on the table was a twin manufacturing model, where Mexican industrial capacity and Belizean market access work together. With Belize being a member of CARICOM, goods produced or processed enter a regional market that accounts for nearly a quarter of Belize’s total exports.

For Mexican manufacturers looking to reach the Caribbean, Belize is effectively that door. Officials discussed building synchronised factories on both sides of the border to take advantage of exactly that.

Minister of Human Development Thea Garcia-Ramirez, who also represents Corozal Bay, the northern district sitting directly at the border, put it plainly. People in Corozal have long crossed into Chetumal to shop, work, and do business. “Corozal Bay stands ready to play its role, not just as a border district and town but as a bridge of cooperation,” she said.

Officials also discussed linking Mexico’s Tren Maya infrastructure with Belize’s transport networks and the planned Port of Belize expansion, a move they say could significantly improve regional logistics and trade connectivity.

Other priority areas included the development of agro-processing and energy-related industries and expansion of tourism and cultural exchange programmes.

Among those present were Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Trade Marconi Leal Jr., senior government CEOs, and Ambassador of Belize to Mexico Oscar Arnold.

“In strengthening Belize’s and Quintana Roo’s trade and investment relationships, we are not only advancing economics; we are investing in the enduring friendship between our nations and well-being for generations to come.” Leal Jr said.

The Mexican delegation included senior advisers and economic officials from the Quintana Roo governor’s office and the state’s economic development ministry.

The meeting concluded with a site visit to the Port of Belize.