A nationwide road blockade is set to unfold across all 32 Mexican states as the Alianza Mexicana de Organización de Transportistas AC (AMOTAC) pushes for robust government intervention against highway insecurity. The protest aligns with the World Cup match between Mexico and the Czech Republic at Estadio Azteca, potentially causing significant disruptions. The transport group is calling for enhanced security measures to tackle issues like violent cargo thefts and alleged extortion by authorities. Additionally, they are seeking financial relief through reductions in operating costs, including fees for towing, municipal access permits, licensing, vehicle registration, and certification.
President Claudia Sheinbaum has announced that the government is working on new initiatives to bolster highway security, unveiling plans for a specialized road-monitoring system akin to a public security command center. This system aims to enhance surveillance and response capabilities on major highways. Despite these assurances, AMOTAC is proceeding with its protest plans, warning that convoys could march toward Mexico City’s central square if their demands remain unaddressed. The organization emphasized that the lack of effective solutions has compelled transport workers to take action to highlight their concerns.
The planned blockade is expected to impact several major routes connecting Mexico City with nearby regions, including highways leading to Pachuca, Chalco, Querétaro, Puebla, and Cuernavaca. With thousands of fans traveling to the football match, significant traffic disruptions are anticipated. AMOTAC has a history of organizing similar protests, having previously joined farmers in December for nationwide road blockades that prompted discussions with government officials. The group maintains that their demands focus on security and working conditions rather than political matters.
Cargo theft continues to be a substantial challenge within Mexico’s transport sector. Official data reveals that around 8,000 cargo robberies occur annually, averaging more than 20 incidents daily. These thefts are often violent, with most cases involving attacks on drivers. In the first ten months of 2025 alone, over 5,200 transport thefts were reported. AMOTAC argues that urgent action is necessary to implement stronger security measures to protect drivers and ensure safer transportation operations across the country.