Maya Train Needs Cargo to Break Even by 2030

Mexico City — The Maya Train will take an additional five years to achieve financial equilibrium, with the state-owned company estimating it will only cover its operating costs by 2030, according to Óscar Lozano Águila, the project's director general. During a meeting with railway companies, Lozano Águila reiterated that no passenger train in the world is profitable, emphasizing that cargo transport will be essential to reach financial stability for the southern Mexico rail project.

Financial Viability Hinges on Cargo Operations

"The goal is to achieve financial equilibrium by 2030, but for that, we absolutely need cargo," Lozano Águila stated. He acknowledged that even at full passenger capacity, the train would not generate sufficient revenue to break even.

"At maximum capacity, with all systems deployed and the highest possible frequency, we will not generate enough resources to reach the break-even point," he added.

Cargo Service to Begin in Phases

The Maya Train's cargo transport system, constructed by the Ministry of National Defense (Sedena) with an initial budget of 38 billion pesos, is set to launch its first phase in 2026, with full operations expected by 2027.

"As with any enterprise, development will be gradual. We aim to reach July 2026 with as many agreements as possible, though this depends on multiple factors. We project moving up to 2 million tons annually initially, with gradual increases," Lozano Águila explained.

The freight rail system aims to boost logistics in southeastern Mexico, where road transport currently dominates goods exchange.

Strategic Cargo Hubs Along the Route

The cargo rail development includes plans for ten logistics hubs along an additional 70-kilometer stretch connecting Mérida, Yucatán, with the port of Progreso. According to Ricardo Vallejo, the project lead, four key hubs—Palenque, Poxilá, Progreso, and Cancún—will be prioritized under the administration of President Claudia Sheinbaum.

The Maya Train's financial sustainability remains a focal point as the government seeks to balance passenger service with the economic necessity of freight transport.