November 18, 2025 — The Port of Hueneme, California, welcomed foreign dignitaries from the State of Chiapas, Mexico, on Thursday for discussions aimed at expanding commercial opportunities and strengthening trade connectivity between California and southern Mexico. Mexico remains one of the Port’s highest-ranking trade partners, standing at #8 by value and #5 by volume, with more than $483.95 million in cargo and 10,083 TEUs moving through the Port annually, underscoring the significance of binational collaboration.
The distinguished visitors included Mr. Conrado de la Cruz, Undersecretary of Commerce for the Secretary of Economy of Chiapas, and Mr. César Rodríguez Márquez, Coordinator of Agricultural and Agroindustrial Financing and Marketing for the Secretary of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries of Chiapas. Port officials hosted the delegation for a port tour and strategic dialogue focused on bilateral cooperation and strengthening trade pathways.
“Mexico is one of our most important trade partners, and we deeply value the longstanding friendship and shared vision that connect our regions,” said Oxnard Harbor District President Jess J. Ramirez. “This visit demonstrates our ongoing commitment to expand opportunities that benefit the people of California and Mexico through shared prosperity, innovation, and collaboration.”
During the visit, the delegation met with Port of Hueneme Harbor District Commissioners and executive leadership to explore opportunities supporting agricultural exports, cold-chain logistics, and sustainable supply chain development. Chiapas plays an increasingly important role in this collaborative trade network, contributing an estimated 70 to 100 containers of imports annually. These shipments include bananas delivered through Chiquita and coffee via GWF, reflecting the region’s agricultural strength. Discussions also highlighted the importance of workforce development to prepare local communities for maritime, logistics, and international trade careers. Exports from California to Chiapas include dairy products, strengthening reciprocal agricultural ties between both regions.
“We are honored to host our colleagues from Chiapas,” said CEO & Port Director Kristin Decas. “By strengthening supply chain connectivity between California and Mexico, we can expand opportunity, support our agricultural communities, and advance sustainable, inclusive trade that benefits families and businesses on both sides of the border.”
“Ports play a critical role in creating modern, resilient, and environmentally responsible supply chains,” said Commissioner Jess Herrera. “By working together, we strengthen our position as leaders in clean logistics and open new opportunity corridors across the Americas.”
“The relationship between California and Mexico goes beyond commerce, it is rooted in culture, friendship, and mutual respect,” said Commissioner Celina Zacarias. “We are honored to welcome this delegation from Chiapas and look forward to meaningful collaboration that benefits families and businesses on both sides of the border.”
The meeting marks the latest milestone in the Port’s ongoing engagement with Mexico and Latin American partners as global supply chains evolve and demand for efficient, sustainable trade corridors increases. The Port’s expanding import and export flows with Chiapas further reinforce its role as a premier West Coast gateway for agricultural goods, refrigerated cargo, and cross-border commerce. The Port of Hueneme has emphasized binational investment in clean logistics, green technology, and job-training pathways as part of its strategic vision to support the regional economy while advancing environmental stewardship.
