Mexico’s Rail Expansion to Link 6 Central American Countries

A plan to integrate Mexico’s rail network with those of six Central American countries was unveiled at the International Transport Forum 2025. The Regional Master Plan for Mobility and Logistics 2035, presented by the Central American Economic Integration Secretariat (SIECA), proposes linking Mexico’s Maya Train and Interoceanic Corridor with rail systems in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama.

Ambitious Cross-Border Rail Integration

The plan, introduced during the OECD’s transport ministers’ meeting, includes feasibility studies on the impact of Mexico’s Interoceanic Train on freight transport to and from Guatemala via the Tecún Umán border crossing. It also explores potential interconnections with the Maya Train.

Francisco A. Lima Mena, SIECA’s Secretary General, confirmed ongoing discussions, stating, “Talks have not stopped. It’s an ambitious idea that has gained significant traction in Guatemala, where strong efforts are underway.” He emphasized that “negotiations are advanced, and the Guatemalan government is highly enthusiastic. This requires coordinated border management, so important efforts are being made.”

The strategy outlines 11 development corridors across Central America, with long-term benefits targeting the region’s growing population by 2035. Key objectives include adopting common rail technology standards, studying regional integration models, implementing biosecurity protocols at stations, and establishing a permanent regional rail authority (an extension of the GTR railway framework).

Strengthening Mexico’s Role in Regional Trade

The plan highlights Mexico’s strategic importance, particularly the Tehuantepec Isthmus Corridor, which would provide access to Asian markets via Salina Cruz Port and North American markets via Coatzacoalcos through short-distance maritime routes to U.S. Gulf ports.

In June 2024, former Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador proposed extending the Maya Train from Chetumal, Quintana Roo, to Belize and onward to Flores, Guatemala—a 500-kilometer expansion. While Belize is not currently included in SIECA’s master plan, Lima Mena noted that its addition would be logistically feasible.

Current Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has expressed continued support for the initiative. In a March 2025 tweet, she affirmed progress on the Interoceanic Train’s “Line K,” stretching from Salina Cruz, Oaxaca, to Ciudad Hidalgo, Chiapas, near the Guatemalan border.

Migration Reduction and Economic Development

Lima Mena stressed that the project could curb migration by boosting economic opportunities in underserved Central American communities. “No one migrates by choice—it’s typically due to economic hardship, which fractures families,” he said. “Sustainable, dignified employment is key. This infrastructure plan is vital for the region, attracting commercial partners.”

The proposal includes a financing strategy to avoid increasing national debts, promoting public-private partnerships and alternative funding mechanisms. It also seeks to coordinate cross-border mobility and logistics projects.

Panama Canal and U.S. Concerns

The plan incorporates the Panama Canal, though Lima Mena acknowledged U.S. scrutiny under President Donald Trump regarding China’s involvement in the canal’s operations. He clarified that Panama is already engaging with U.S. officials on these concerns.

About the International Transport Forum

The International Transport Forum (ITF), an intergovernmental think tank under the OECD, serves as a platform for transport policy dialogue. SIECA’s presentation at the forum underscores the regional significance of the rail integration plan.