Guatemala steps into the maritime future

In recent years, Guatemala has undertaken a significant transformation of its maritime and port industry, implementing measures that strengthen its position as a competitive logistics hub in the region.

Among the most notable achievements is the creation of the Maritime Single Window (VUMAR), a digital platform that streamlines and centralizes all vessel arrival and departure procedures. This innovation has reduced processing times from hours to minutes and has generated substantial savings for both public and private sectors.

Guatemala is also advancing the expansion of Puerto Quetzal, a major infrastructure project that includes extending the berth, increasing docking capacity for larger vessels, and improving critical port facilities, an investment valued at up to US$600 million.

Alongside these efforts, the country is promoting an ambitious modernization of its legal framework through the proposed General Port System Law, aimed at enhancing regulatory governance, attracting private investment, and aligning national operations with international standards.

International cooperation has also intensified. Guatemala has strengthened its bilateral partnership with the United States to support engineering development, port security, infrastructure design, and potential railway rehabilitation to improve nationwide logistics connectivity.

Simultaneously, a number of ports, including Santo Tomás de Castilla, Puerto Barrios, Puerto Quetzal, and San José, have embraced digital solutions for efficiency and transparency, including integrated communication systems, real-time cargo tracking, and operational status monitoring.

These efforts have positioned Guatemala as a growing regional leader, further evidenced by its selection as host of AAPA LATAM 2026, an event that highlights the country’s increasing influence within the hemispheric port agenda.

Within this context of modernization, Lludelis Espinal has contributed as an international expert in port legislation and regulatory policy, participating in regional forums and technical panels in which Guatemala actively engages. Her work has supported discussions on legislative modernization, regulatory efficiency, and comparative international practices that complement the country’s efforts to update its port governance structures.

Meanwhile, the Ramón E. Mella Foundation (Tito Mella Foundation) has played a direct role through cooperation agreements with Guatemala’s National Port Commission and the Santo Tomás de Castilla Port Authority. These agreements support Guatemala's ongoing port development initiatives by fostering binational cooperation, technical training, and institutional strengthening components.

Together, the advancements in infrastructure, digitalization, legislation, international cooperation, and institutional capacity demonstrate Guatemala’s firm commitment to becoming a modern, efficient, and globally competitive logistics hub.