The Laredo Formula: Knowledge, Experience, and Partnerships Driving the Future of International Trade

North America's competitiveness will not bebuilt by a single city, a single state, or a single country, but through collaboration among governments, industry, and organizations on both sides of the border. That was the central message marking the opening ofthe Port Laredo Global Trade Summit 2026, where the mayor of Laredo, Texas, Victor D. Treviño, presented what he called the "Laredo Formula", a model based on trust,cooperation, and economic integration.

Before representatives ofindustry, government authorities, and specialists in logistics and international trade, Treviño emphasized that Laredo's land port represents far more than a strategic location.

Expansion to Keep Pace with Trade Growth

In an interview with Mexico Industry, Treviño explained that expanding the international bridges is oneof the priorities for ensuring that trade growth continues without creating bottlenecks at the border.

"Expanding the bridges is crucial because the volume of trade ahead will be much greater. We cannot allow growth to be halted by capacity problems; we need faster crossings, more technology, and more personnel to facilitate the flow of goods," he said.

The mayor noted that the city recently secured $25 million in federal funding to strengthen border infrastructure. However, he acknowledged that investment needs continue to grow.

In addition to new construction, he explained that it will be essential to incorporate technological solutions, streamline customs processes, and strengthen coordination among the various agencies involved in international trade.

Experience: Laredo's True Asset

For Treviño, Laredo's geographic position along the Interstate 35 trade corridor explains only part of its success. The knowledge acquired throughout its history, its refined methodology, and the synergy among logistics companies, customs brokers, and productive sectors make up what the mayor calls the “Laredo Formula.”

"Location is important, but what truly sets Laredo apart is the experience accumulated over decades, the knowledge of how international trade works, and the relationships among customs agencies, logistics operators, and the private sector. That experience cannot be built overnight," he said.

Laredo Looks to the Future

During his opening remarks, Treviño said that the future of regional trade will depend on continuing to build infrastructure, adopting new technologies, strengthening customs operations, and, above all, maintaining trust among trading partners.

"Great ports do not wait for the future; they build it," he concluded.

With that vision, the Port Laredo Global Trade Summit 2026 became a forum where public- and private-sector leaders agreed that North America's competitiveness will depend on Mexico and the United States continuing to work as an integrated region prepared to meet the challenges of global trade.