A proposed deep-water container port on Mexico's Baja coast - a project that could one day siphon international trade away from Long Beach and Los Angeles - has reportedly been put on hold until 2010, according to Mexico's Ministry of Communication and Transport.
The port at Punta Colonet, about 150 miles south of San Diego, is envisioned as a major intermodal trade hub designed to handle imports from Asia and bound for the U.S. market by rail. Planners had hoped to accept bidding on the $5 billion project by this summer, but the Mexican government has said planners failed to submit required environmental documents on time, hence the delay.
When first announced last year, the project reportedly attracted the attention of several international developers, including Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim, one of the world's richest men.
Trade magazine Cargo Business News first reported the delay in its July issue, citing a representative who said bidding on Puerto Colonet will go forward in 2010.
Developers see the port handling up to 5 million containers annually by 2020 - volumes equalling those now handled in Long Beach. Retailers believe the project would offer a cheaper alternative for the importation of goods from manufacturing centers in China, Japan and Southeast Asia.
Paul Eakins reports on Long Beach City Hall, and local and regional
politics. A newcomer to the Press-
Kris Hanson reports on the Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles,
covering environmental issues, economic triumphs and
pitfalls and trade trends of America’s largest port.
He also writes a weekly column “On The Waterfront”,
appearing Tuesdays, and also produces an occassional video
and column titled “On The Job,” which follows the hard-working
men and women who keep Southern California’s economy humming.
Karen Robes Meeks came to work for the Press-
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