The Alianza Mexicana de Organización de Transportistas AC (AMOTAC) is gearing up for a nationwide road blockade across all 32 states in Mexico this Wednesday. This protest is strategically planned to occur alongside the World Cup match between the Mexican national football team and the Czech Republic at Estadio Azteca. The transport organization is pushing for the government to take firmer action against the rising issue of highway insecurity, which includes violent cargo thefts and alleged extortion by authorities. Additionally, AMOTAC is demanding reduced costs for operational necessities, such as towing fees, municipal access permits, licensing, vehicle registration, and certification.
In response to these demands, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has indicated that the government is developing new strategies to enhance highway security. Among the proposed measures is the creation of a specialized road-monitoring system akin to a public security command center. This system aims to boost surveillance and the ability to respond swiftly to incidents on major highways. Despite these government plans, AMOTAC remains firm on its decision to proceed with the protest and has even cautioned that truck convoys may head toward Mexico City’s central square if their concerns remain unmet.
The expected demonstrations are likely to impact several major routes leading into Mexico City, including those connecting to Pachuca, Chalco, Querétaro, Puebla, and Cuernavaca. With the football match drawing significant crowds, substantial traffic disruptions are anticipated. AMOTAC has a history of organizing similar protests; in December, they collaborated with farmers in nationwide blockades that led to negotiations with government officials. The transport group emphasizes that their demands are centered on security and working conditions rather than political motivations.
Cargo theft presents a significant challenge within Mexico’s transportation sector. Official data reveals that roughly 8,000 cargo robberies occur each year, which translates to more than 20 incidents daily. Violence is commonly associated with these thefts, with many cases involving attacks on drivers. Over the first ten months of 2025, more than 5,200 transport thefts were documented. AMOTAC asserts that there is an urgent need for enhanced security measures to protect drivers and ensure the safe operation of transport services throughout the nation.