The Alianza Mexicana de Organización de Transportistas AC (AMOTAC) has declared a nationwide road blockade set to take place across all 32 states in Mexico on Wednesday. This event coincides with the World Cup match between Mexico and the Czech Republic at Estadio Azteca. The transport organization is pressing for more decisive government action against the security issues plaguing highways, including rising incidents of violent cargo thefts and claims of extortion by authorities. Additionally, they are demanding reductions in various operational costs such as towing fees, municipal access permits, licensing charges, vehicle registration fees, and certification expenses.
In response to these demands, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced the development of new strategies to enhance highway security. She outlined plans for a specialized road-monitoring system akin to a public security command center, which is expected to bolster surveillance and response mechanisms on significant highways. Despite these forthcoming measures, AMOTAC remains firm in its protest plans, warning that truck convoys could potentially move toward Mexico City’s central square if their grievances are not adequately addressed. The organization insists that the persistent lack of effective solutions has compelled transport workers to take this stand to highlight the sector’s pressing issues.
The demonstrations are projected to disrupt several major routes linking Mexico City with neighboring areas, including highways leading to Pachuca, Chalco, Querétaro, Puebla, and Cuernavaca. With thousands of fans anticipated to travel for the football match, significant traffic disruptions are expected. This protest is not a first for the transporters; in December, they joined forces with farmers in nationwide blockades that resulted in negotiations with government officials. AMOTAC emphasizes that their demands concentrate on security and working conditions rather than political matters.
Cargo theft continues to pose a significant challenge within Mexico’s transport sector. Official statistics reveal that approximately 8,000 cargo robberies occur each year, translating to over 20 incidents daily. Violence is prevalent in these cases, with many reports involving attacks on drivers. In the first ten months of 2025 alone, more than 5,200 transport thefts were documented. AMOTAC argues that the urgency for stronger security measures is critical to safeguard drivers and ensure safer transport operations nationwide.