Cozumel, Q.R. — The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat) says the fourth pier project for the island of Cozumel is under review. Federal officials says they have begun the review of the environmental impact resolution issued on December 7, 2021, following a challenge received from island residents.
The Secretaría de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales (Semarnat) reports that the review is in response to the appeal filed by residents of Isla Cozumel against the resolution document authorizing the “Cozumel Pier, Cruise Terminal” project.
The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources will conduct a study to assess the project, based on current regulations, the protection of the reef ecosystem and the population’s right to a healthy environment.
On June 13, Semarnat admitted a review appeal after residents questioned resolution SGPA-DGIRA-DG-05859-21, which authorized the project. Consequently, on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, Semarnat notified the appellants and the promoting company that it initiated an administrative procedure derived from this challenge.
The appellants requested a suspension to prevent the project from being executed until the proceedings were resolved. However, the parties involved were informed that, in order to carry out the works and activities evaluated, compliance with the terms established in the Environmental Impact Authorization itself is required, that is, obtaining the corresponding federal, state and municipal authorizations, concessions, and permits that are pending issuance.
Semarnat says the appeal has already been forwarded to the superior authority for substantiation, who must decide based on applicable regulations, environmental principles, and principles governing public service.
On June 9, company Muelles del Caribe SA de CV held a press conference announcing the official court ruling in their favor to build the fourth pier.
The press conference was led by company representative José Luis Cervantes who reported after three years of litigation, the company will move forward with the construction of a fourth pier to accommodate deep-draft vessels.
