Latin America: Our trading partner

Map of waterway from Arkansas to Mexico.

Trade with Latin America is expected to double by the year 2020. Currently, Mexico is the second largest trading partner with the United States. At the present rate of growth, Mexico is expected to surpass Canada as the U.S.'s largest trading partner in the next 10 years.

Arkansas' central location offers quick and efficient access to the Port of Brownsville in Texas. Arkansas products can be shipped by barge through New Orleans, La. From there, they can be shipped directly to the Port of Brownsville via the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway. Once at the Port of Brownsville, products can be readily distributed to Monterrey, Mexico City, and throughout Mexico by truck and rail.

Arkansas manufacturers can take advantage of the convenience and efficiency that crossing the border at Brownsville presents. In most cases, shipments can pass through the border at Brownsville in one day.

Arkansas' proximity should be a catalyst for increased Latin American trade from its ports. Now, more than ever, Arkansas waterways are positioned for the future.

For more information:

Arkansas Waterways Commission
101 East Capitol Ave. Suite 370
Little Rock, AR 72201
Phone: (501) 682-1173