ICTSI unit steps up expansion of Mexico operations

Contecon Manzanillo (CMSA), International Container Terminal Services Inc.’s (ICTSI) subsidiary in Mexico, recently started the third phase of its expansion project, which will increase its capacity from 1.4 million to more than two million TEUs within the next five years.

CMSA chief executive officer José Antonio Contreras led the project inauguration with Colima Governor Indira Vizcaíno Silva, Commander Rubén Alfonso Suárez of the 10th Naval Region, Admiral José Rafael Ojeda of the Marine Ministry and Asipona Manzanillo General Director Salvador Gómez Meillón.

The third phase of the expansion project will enable the Port of Manzanillo – a key port in the Pacific Coast of Mexico – to increase its operational capacity and cater to the country’s current and future foreign trade requirements.

“Manzanillo is the most important node of international logistics in the Pacific Coast of Mexico and it will continue to be so. We are convinced that this expansion, as well as the construction of land access to the northern zone of the terminal and the acquisition of new inspection equipment for Customs, will consolidate and strengthen the port’s position among competitors,” said Contreras.

“This port is designed to meet present and future needs, as well as handle 400-meter ships. If the port wins, we all win – from our clients to the families of our employees,” he added.

The ambitious investment plan for 2022 to 2025 would cost more than $230 million, which will mainly be used to upgrade shipping and terminal infrastructure, storage yards and equipment. The capacity increase to two million TEUs will position Contecon as the largest terminal in Mexico’s Pacific coast.

“We agree to the objective of expanding the port to make it more efficient, and also preserve the well-being of Colima’s population in general,” said Governor Silva.

CMSA’s expansion will create more than 600 new direct jobs, in addition to the existing 1,200, along with 11,600 indirect jobs, making the company one of the most committed employers in Colima.

The company has invested  about $122 million in port equipment since starting operations, contributing more than $238 million in port considerations to Mexico’s port infrastructure and generating employment for more than 1,200 people.