Photo Essay

Mexico’s Answer to the Panama Canal Finally Takes Shape

A new railway is transforming communities, livelihoods and landscapes—and could shake up global trade.

By Mauricio Palos and Andrzej Ryback |

October 14, 2025

Passengers alight in Matías Romero, Oaxaca, from the new Tehuantepec Interoceanic Train.
Mauricio Palos

Mexico’s Answer to the Panama Canal Finally Takes Shape

A new railway is transforming communities, livelihoods and landscapes—and could shake up global trade.

Americas Quarterly (AQ) is the premier publication on politics, business, and culture in Latin America. We are an independent publication of the Americas Society/Council of the Americas, based in New York City. All Rights Reserved