Manzanillo port expands capacity to handle 24,000-TEU vessels

Contecon Manzanillo (CMSA), a subsidiary of International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI), has received authorization to handle ultra-large container vessels with capacities of up to 24,000 TEU. The approval, granted on August 31, allows the terminal to accommodate ships up to 400 meters in length with drafts of up to 15.5 meters.

This development marks a significant step in Manzanillo’s capacity to serve major trade corridors and increasing cargo volumes. While the current 15.5-meter draft is an intermediate milestone, CMSA is working toward a target operational draft of 17 meters. Simultaneously, the Administración del Sistema Portuario Nacional Manzanillo (ASIPONA Manzanillo) is conducting dredging and basin-conditioning works to support deeper-draft vessels.