Riviera Maya, Q.R. — Belize is moving ahead with Mexico talks to begin studies to expand the Tren Maya. Mexico’s neighbor has expressed interest in having the tracks expanded into their country since before the start of the project.
Belizean authorities have confirmed that formal negotiations are set to take place in the coming days between representatives of the mega-railway project and the neighboring country’s government.
Nery Ramírez, the Executive Director of the Corozal Free Zone, reported that although a date for the meeting has not yet been set, the arrival of a technical team from Tren Maya is expected to conduct preliminary studies on the project’s feasibility.
These projects are part of a proposal promoted by Belizean Prime Minister Jhon Briceño, who previously asked the Mexican government to consider extending the train into Belize.
“What I understand is that the Maya Train team and the government are coming to review the route and conduct the necessary studies with a view to developing a management plan,” Ramírez said.
The official noted that the potential rail connection would represent a significant opportunity for both the tourism sector and bilateral trade. In particular, he emphasized that the Free Zone could benefit from freight rail transportation once this mode of transport is operational.
In May, Belize Prime Minister John Briceño and Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum had a phone conversation with both sides discussing expanding market access for Belizean cattle and coconuts as well as expanding the Maya Train project.
