Trade Ports Program

New Mexico’s Trade Ports Program

Strengthening multimodal logistics, industrial development, and regional trade capacity across New Mexico

New Mexico’s Trade Ports Program enhances the state’s ability to identify, evaluate, and support high‑value logistics and industrial hubs that advance regional and international trade. The Trade Ports Development Act (HB 19) authorizes Economic Development New Mexico to designate Trade Port Districts, evaluate strategic trade assets, and support planning and infrastructure activities that strengthen long‑term job creation and investment opportunities across the state.

Through the program, public or private entities may pursue designation as a Trade Port District, which is determined through a structured evaluation process, advisory committee review, and, upon designation as a Trade Port District, gives eligibility for infrastructure and development funding through the Trade Ports Development Fund.

Designated Trade Port Districts represent New Mexico’s most promising multimodal and trade‑focused locations positioned to support freight movement, industrial expansion, and cross‑border commerce, and importantly to bring manufacturing investment and jobs to the state.

Trade Port District Evaluation & Designation (now accepting applications!)

Applicants are invited to submit proposals to EDNM for consideration as a Trade Port District. Proposals are reviewed for strategic location, transportation access, infrastructure capacity, and alignment with statewide economic development priorities.

Following review, the Trade Ports Advisory Committee may recommend districts for designation to the EDNM Cabinet Secretary. Designation enables districts to apply for funding to advance planning, infrastructure, and development activities identified through the evaluation process.

Benefits of Trade Port District Designation

Designated districts may be eligible for:

• planning and feasibility studies
• infrastructure assessments and early‑stage engineering
• multimodal access improvements
• site development and pre‑construction activities
• strategic investments that enhance logistics and industrial readiness

Designation does not guarantee funding, but it is required before a district may apply to the Trade Ports Development Fund.

How the Trade Ports Program Supports Communities

The Trade Ports Program helps communities prepare strategic logistics and industrial hubs by providing:

• a clear pathway for district designation
• advisory committee review and recommendations
• access to planning and pre‑development resources
• technical assistance from EDNM staff
• coordination with transportation, infrastructure, and regional partners

How to get started