On Wednesday, the Alianza Mexicana de Organización de Transportistas AC (AMOTAC) is set to initiate a nationwide road blockade spanning all 32 states in Mexico. The timing of this action coincides with the anticipated World Cup match between the national football teams of Mexico and the Czech Republic, scheduled to take place at Estadio Azteca. The transport association is calling for the government to take more decisive action against the persistent issue of highway insecurity, which includes rampant cargo thefts and claims of extortion by authorities. Additionally, they are advocating for reduced operational costs encompassing towing fees, municipal access permits, licensing charges, vehicle registration, and certification costs.
President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico has acknowledged these concerns and stated that the government is in the process of developing new strategies to enhance highway security. She mentioned plans to implement a specialized road-monitoring system that would function similarly to a public security command center, with the goal of bolstering surveillance and response capabilities on major highways. Despite the government’s assurances, AMOTAC remains firm in its decision to proceed with the protest and has indicated that truck convoys might head towards Mexico City’s central square if their demands remain unmet. The organization has expressed that the continued lack of effective solutions has compelled transport workers to take measures to spotlight the industry’s pressing issues.
The demonstrations are anticipated to significantly impact several key routes leading into Mexico City, including highways to Pachuca, Chalco, Querétaro, Puebla, and Cuernavaca. With thousands of football fans expected to travel for the match, considerable traffic disruptions are likely. In previous instances, AMOTAC has organized similar protests, such as the road blockades conducted in December alongside farmers, which resulted in discussions with government officials. The group maintains that their demands are centered on improving security and working conditions, rather than being politically motivated.
Cargo theft continues to pose a substantial challenge within Mexico’s transportation sector. Official statistics reveal that nearly 8,000 cargo robberies occur annually, equating to over 20 incidents each day. These crimes are frequently violent, with many cases involving assaults on drivers. In the first ten months of 2025 alone, more than 5,200 transport theft incidents were reported. AMOTAC argues that it is imperative to implement stronger security measures to protect drivers and ensure safer transport operations throughout the country.