In a bold move to strengthen regional integration and economic collaboration, Belize has officially proposed an extension of Mexico’s Mayan Train into its national territory. The initiative, designed to enhance cross-border trade, boost tourism, and improve infrastructure links across Central America, could become one of the most transformative transportation projects in Belize’s recent history.
The proposed railway connection—envisioned as an extension from Mexico’s southeastern railway hub to the Belizean border—aims to tie the two nations more closely together through shared access to logistical corridors and international tourism flows. Officials estimate that the railway could generate up to 4 million additional tourist arrivals annually, positioning Belize as a key regional destination and trade gateway.
Strengthening Mexico–Belize Ties Through Infrastructure
On May 14, 2025, Belize’s Prime Minister engaged in high-level talks with Mexican government officials to present the proposal. The dialogue not only highlighted the Mayan Train expansion but also touched on trade in agricultural products like cattle and coconuts, as well as energy and infrastructure collaboration. The talks reaffirm the commitment of both nations to deepening bilateral economic relations.
The Mayan Train, or Tren Maya, is one of Mexico’s most ambitious infrastructure projects—intended to connect tourism hubs, rural communities, and economic zones across Yucatán, Quintana Roo, Campeche, Tabasco, and Chiapas. A potential extension into Belize could seamlessly link the Interoceanic Corridor of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec (CIIT) with Belizean ports and commercial zones, enhancing regional supply chains and travel networks.
Economic Potential: Corozal Free Zone and Beyond
The Corozal Free Zone—a thriving commercial area along Belize’s northern border—has seen exceptional traffic in recent years. In 2024 alone, it welcomed over 1.1 million visitors and more than 2.6 million vehicle crossings from Mexico, supporting 1,500+ local jobs and sustaining a robust ecosystem of casinos, retail outlets, and hospitality services.
With a rail link connecting the Subteniente López border area to Corozal, economic activity is projected to intensify. Belizean officials believe the proposed Mayan Train expansion will further energize this zone, easing transportation for Mexican visitors, improving trade logistics, and increasing accessibility to tourism hotspots like Ambergris Caye, San Ignacio, and Placencia.
Regional Diplomacy and Business Cooperation
In anticipation of the railway project, Belize has initiated technical assessments and bilateral meetings. In February 2025, the Minister of State for Foreign Trade of Belize met with counterparts from Quintana Roo’s Ministry of Economic Development to discuss collaborative initiatives. Focus areas included:
- Value-added trade opportunities
- Business-to-business partnerships
- Streamlining customs procedures
- Market access to Caribbean nations
As part of their agreement, joint working groups will be established to study the regulatory framework and logistics required for rail operations, infrastructure upgrades, and commercial integration.
Unlocking Access to the Caribbean Market
Belize’s unique position as the only English-speaking country in Central America and a full member of CARICOM (Caribbean Community) offers Mexican businesses an unprecedented advantage. The Mayan Train extension could transform Belize into a strategic export corridor for Mexican goods bound for Caribbean markets.
Belizean authorities are advocating for collaborative systems that would allow Mexican exporters to meet CARICOM Rules of Origin standards, streamlining their access to a trade bloc of over 18 countries. The rail connection could provide an efficient route for Mexican manufacturers to move products through Belize and into ports serving the Caribbean.
Boosting Belize’s Tourism Vision
With projections of up to 4 million additional tourists per year, the proposed railway would greatly support Belize’s National Sustainable Tourism Master Plan. The plan, championed by the Belize Tourism Board, aims to diversify tourism flows and reduce dependence on air and cruise travel.
Tourists arriving by rail from Mexico would have direct, scenic access to inland Belize, opening up underexplored regions and heritage sites such as:
- Lamanai and Xunantunich Mayan ruins
- Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve
- Rio Bravo Conservation Area
Rail tourism also offers more sustainable and lower-emission travel alternatives, aligning with Belize’s long-term environmental goals.
Technical and Feasibility Assessments Underway
Mexican technical experts are expected to visit Belize in the coming months to conduct on-site evaluations. The feasibility studies will assess terrain, environmental impact, and infrastructure integration. Engineers will focus on developing a scalable route that can align with existing and future transport infrastructure, including highways, customs points, and regional ports.
The initiative also fits within Mexico’s regional infrastructure strategy, which includes connecting southern states to Central America and improving logistics between the Pacific and Atlantic coasts through the CIIT.
A Gateway to Greater Regional Integration
If successful, the Mayan Train extension could be a pivotal step in regional integration, providing a physical and symbolic bridge between Mexico and Central America. It represents a forward-thinking approach to interconnectivity, trade, and tourism cooperation, positioning Belize as a vital hub in a more integrated Mesoamerican economy.
The project’s supporters believe it could reshape Belize’s economic landscape, creating new opportunities for job growth, foreign investment, and tourism diversification—particularly in inland areas that remain less developed than coastal regions.
As Belize and Mexico continue diplomatic, technical, and commercial coordination, the proposed Mayan Train extension marks an exciting opportunity for both nations. If realized, the railway will not only improve physical connectivity but also unlock a future of shared prosperity, cultural exchange, and regional resilience in the heart of the Americas.
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