How is Nuevo León Preparing to Welcome Millions of Border Crossings?

With an eye on the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the strengthening of bilateral trade, Nuevo León began the year by consolidating institutional coordination at Puerto Colombia–Laredo, one of the fastest-growing border crossings in the Mexico–United States relationship.

Representing Governor Samuel García, Marco González, Secretary of Regional and Agricultural Development for Nuevo León, held a high-level meeting with customs authorities from both countries to review the agenda on infrastructure, security, and operational efficiency, in a context marked by the projected increase in tourist and logistical flow in the coming years.

The meeting took place with the Senior Staff of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the National Customs Agency of Mexico (ANAM) at the Colombia–Laredo border port.

“This is the first meeting of the year with these key authorities from both countries, to continue consolidating Puerto Colombia–Laredo as the fastest, most efficient, and safest crossing along the entire Mexico–United States border,” González stated.

One of the central themes of the meeting was the strategic role of the Nuevo León border crossing ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, particularly due to its connectivity with Monterrey, Dallas, and Houston, cities that will host more than 20 tournament matches.

“All authorities present agreed that this border port will be the main connection between Monterrey, Dallas, and Houston, host cities for the World Cup,” affirmed the state official.

González emphasized that the planning considers not only the flow of fans but also the movement of cargo, equipment, and goods linked to the event’s organization.

“We are talking about millions of tourists and soccer fans crossing through our customs, but also about the transport of goods and equipment from tournament suppliers and organizers,” he explained.

During the meeting, authorities agreed to maintain and strengthen agility and security conditions at the crossing, particularly in anticipation of the projected increase in transit during 2026.

In this context, González highlighted the relevance of the La Gloria–Colombia Highway, considered the backbone of the World Cup’s logistical corridor.

“The La Gloria–Colombia highway will continue to have permanent surveillance by Fuerza Civil and the National Guard,” he assured.

“All of this is part of Governor Samuel García’s vision for Nuevo León to be the best World Cup host city.”

Beyond the World Cup, recent figures confirm the structural growth of Puerto Colombia–Laredo as an entry point to the country.

According to records from the National Institute of Migration, between January and September 2025, 69,603 entry permits were granted to compatriots and tourists crossing through this port.

This figure represents a 121.24% increase compared to the 51,500 permits granted throughout 2024.

In a medium-term perspective, the increase is even more significant. Comparing 2025 figures with those recorded annually since 2020, cumulative growth reaches 265%, reflecting a structural change in tourism and mobility flows.

The consolidation of Puerto Colombia–Laredo occurs at a key moment for Nuevo León, marked by the relocation of production chains, the strengthening of foreign trade, and preparation for one of the most significant global sporting events.

For the business sector, binational coordination at this crossing represents greater logistical certainty, reduced transit times, and a more competitive environment for trade, tourism, and investment.