Tapachula becomes a major hub for U.S. deportees in southern Mexico

The city of Tapachula, Mexico, has become a major hub for migrants expelled from the United States. Data from the Mexican Institute for Migration indicates that between January 2025 and March 2026, 12,977 non-Mexicans were expelled from the U.S. into southern Mexico.

This policy involves relocating individuals from countries such as Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Haiti to southern Mexican territory when immediate repatriation is not possible. U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin stated the administration's objective is zero border crossings, a goal pursued through pressure on regional governments.

One individual affected by this shift is Julio Borrell, a 72-year-old Cuban immigrant who lived in Miami for 46 years. After being detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), he was transported via bus to the southern tip of Mexico. Tapachula, which has a population of approximately 350,000, now hosts around 60,000 foreigners. Mexican officials monitor transit corridors to prevent deportees from attempting to move north again.