CTM Supports Fourth Cozumel Cruise Dock Amid Environmental Debate

Cozumel, Mexico — Moisés Méndez Balam, secretary general of the Confederation of Mexican Workers (CTM) on the island, has expressed support for the construction of a fourth cruise ship dock, a project led by the company SSA México. The initiative has faced persistent environmental and social opposition since its inception.

Labor Benefits Cited as Justification

Méndez Balam argued that the new port infrastructure could provide immediate benefits to the local workforce by facilitating tourist arrivals in the island’s downtown area and generating jobs amid lingering economic challenges from the pandemic.

“Many people have not been able to regain employment since COVID-19. They come to the CTM seeking opportunities,” he said. He further justified the project by stating that an additional dock would improve passenger logistics: “Currently, many visitors remain near the dock and don’t make it to the downtown area. With the new dock, that would change.”

Environmental and Social Opposition Persists

Despite the CTM’s endorsement, the Fourth Dock project—approved amid social and environmental tensions—has drawn sharp criticism from civic organizations, environmental groups, and urban planning experts. Opponents argue that the project disregards the fragility of the marine ecosystem, particularly coral reefs and natural currents, as well as the cumulative impact of mass tourism.

The Integral Port Administration of Quintana Roo (Apiqroo) has defended the project, citing port congestion and the need to maintain Cozumel’s competitiveness as a cruise destination. However, independent studies warn that the island already handles a high volume of cruise ships—up to seven per day, according to Méndez Balam—and that increased traffic does not necessarily translate to greater local economic benefits.

“International experience shows that more docks do not guarantee higher income for residents but rather increase pressure on public services and the natural environment,” groups such as the Colectivo Coral Moral have stated.

Legal Challenges and Broader Concerns

The project currently faces multiple legal challenges from citizens who allege a lack of transparency in the environmental assessment process and omissions in public consultations. Critics also argue that the cruise-based tourism model fosters economic dependency, informal employment, and uneven wealth distribution while harming natural heritage.

Though the CTM leader maintains that the dock would aid sectors hit hardest by the economic crisis, the broader debate remains unresolved: What kind of tourism development model does Cozumel need to ensure sustainability, social equity, and environmental resilience?