Mexico to Build 3,000km of Passenger Rail by 2030

The Mexican government’s Sectoral Infrastructure, Communications and Transport Program 2025-2030 sets forth the construction of over 3,000km of new passenger rail lines, a development expected to benefit over 49 million people and drive regional growth under the principle of “Shared Prosperity.” Published in the Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF), the plan identifies passenger rail as a “high priority,” aiming to establish a sustainable, accessible and efficient Mexican Railway System that ensures safety for both passengers and freight. Constitutional Reform and Policy Shift The program builds on the October 2024 constitutional reform that amended Art. 28 of the Mexican Constitution, officially designating passenger rail as a priority area for national development. The reform also elevates the preference for public passenger rail services to constitutional status, aligning with the government’s “National Project” and its strategy to reactivate and expand rail services. Less than 10% of Mexico’s rail network serves passengers. The new projects will expand this share significantly, connecting Mexico City to Pachuca, Nuevo Laredo, and Nogales, while also integrating with flagship projects such as the Tren Maya, the Interoceanic Corridor of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec (CIIT), and the “El Insurgente” Train. The expansion will boost nationwide connectivity by extending rail access to more states and improving mobility for communities near the new lines. In addition, the program seeks to strengthen freight rail transport through stricter oversight, infrastructure conservation, and maintenance. These measures are expected to enhance productive connectivity and reduce logistics costs. Key Projects and Military Collaboration Among the program’s highlights is the planned construction of a new Mayan Train extension to Progreso and the incorporation of freight services into the Mayan Train. While these projects are coordinated by the Ministry of Defense (SEDENA), the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transport (SICT) will remain responsible for regulation and oversight. The plan also underscores the completion of Line K of the Interoceanic Railway, running from Ixtepec, Oaxaca, to Ciudad Hidalgo, Chiapas. This project is being coordinated by the Navy (SEMAR), with technical support from SICT.