Guatemala and U.S. Collaborate to Expand Puerto Quetzal

Guatemala has announced a $125 million initiative to expand Puerto Quetzal, its largest Pacific port, with technical and financial backing from the United States.

This project, confirmed by government officials on February 24, follows agreements reached during U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s recent visit to Guatemala, where he met with President Bernardo Arévalo de León.

The expansion will extend the port’s terminal by 800 meters and add four new berths to the existing four. José Antonio Lemus, head of Empresa Portuaria Quetzal, emphasized that the upgrades aim to accommodate larger commercial vessels as shipping volumes grow.

Since its establishment in 1980, Puerto Quetzal has handled up to 700 million kilograms of cargo annually but has not undergone significant modernization. Construction is expected to begin in 2027 after a formal agreement is signed this May.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) will oversee the project, leveraging its extensive experience in aquatic infrastructure. The initial $125 million investment represents 10% of the estimated $600 million total cost.

Guatemala’s Strategic Expansion

The upgrades aim to boost Guatemala’s trade capacity and position Puerto Quetzal as a regional logistics hub. Puerto Quetzal’s location 100 kilometers south of Guatemala City makes it a critical gateway for exports like sugar, coffee, and textiles.

Its proximity to the Panama Canal enhances its strategic importance for global shipping routes. However, this expansion is not just about infrastructure; it reflects broader geopolitical dynamics.

The U.S. aims to counter China’s growing influence in Latin America, highlighted by Beijing’s $3.6 billion Chancay Port project in Peru under its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Chancay Port is designed as a key trade link between Asia and South America. Meanwhile, Washington’s support for Puerto Quetzal underscores its commitment to offering alternatives to Chinese-backed projects.

This collaboration also aligns with Guatemala’s broader economic goals. The nearby Quetzal Free Zone—a logistics hub located just four kilometers from the port—has attracted over $100 million in investments and offers tax incentives to businesses.

Together, these developments promise to enhance Guatemala’s role in global trade while fostering economic growth. By modernizing its largest port with U.S. support, Guatemala positions itself as a competitive player in international commerce. At the same time, it navigates shifting geopolitical currents.