A nationwide roadblock is set to take place across all 32 states in Mexico on Wednesday, organized by the Alianza Mexicana de Organización de Transportistas AC (AMOTAC). This protest aligns with the World Cup match between Mexico and the Czech Republic at Estadio Azteca. The transport group is pressing for government intervention to tackle highway insecurity, which includes a rise in violent cargo thefts and alleged extortion by authorities. Additionally, they are calling for reductions in operating costs, such as those related to towing fees, municipal access permits, licensing charges, vehicle registration, and certification costs.
In response to these demands, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that the government is devising new strategies to enhance highway security. She outlined plans for a specialized road-monitoring system akin to a public security command center, which aims to boost surveillance and response capabilities on major highways. Despite these governmental efforts, AMOTAC remains firm in its protest plans, threatening that truck convoys could advance toward Mexico City’s central square if their demands are not met. The organization emphasizes that the lack of effective solutions has compelled transport workers to take action to highlight the sector’s pressing concerns.
The planned demonstrations are anticipated to cause significant traffic disruptions, particularly affecting major routes that connect Mexico City to surrounding regions, including highways to Pachuca, Chalco, Querétaro, Puebla, and Cuernavaca. This is expected to coincide with the influx of thousands of fans traveling to witness the football match. AMOTAC has a history of organizing similar protests; in December, they collaborated with farmers in nationwide road blockades, which led to discussions with government officials. The group insists that their demands are centered on improving security and working conditions rather than political issues.
Cargo theft is a persistent and major issue within Mexico’s transport sector. Official statistics reveal that approximately 8,000 cargo robberies occur annually, translating to over 20 incidents each day. Violence is a common element in these crimes, with most cases involving attacks on drivers. In the first ten months of 2025 alone, more than 5,200 transport thefts were reported. AMOTAC asserts that there is an urgent need for stronger security measures to safeguard drivers and ensure safer transport operations throughout the country.