Mexican trucking group urges US to clarify B-1 visa revocations

Mexican trucking industry representatives are urging U.S. Customs and Border Protection to provide transparent definitions regarding cabotage violations. According to a report by FreightWaves, the National Chamber of Freight Transportation (CANACAR) is concerned that inconsistent rule interpretations are leading to the widespread revocation of B-1 visas for commercial drivers. These leaders are calling for a standardized process and clear explanations of what specific irregularities trigger these enforcement actions at the border.

The disagreement focuses on how federal agents interpret the movement of trucks after they deliver international cargo. While the industry acknowledges that foreign drivers cannot transport domestic U.S. freight, they argue that some officials are incorrectly penalizing drivers who reposition empty trucks to pick up Mexico-bound shipments. One CANACAR official noted that the chamber had historically maintained a positive relationship with U.S. authorities, but recent attempts to resolve these discrepancies through dialogue have stalled.

Industry advocates warn that the loss of thousands of experienced drivers could tighten capacity and increase safety risks. As carriers struggle to replace qualified personnel, they may be forced to hire less experienced drivers to maintain freight flows for manufacturers and shippers. Ismael Reyes de la Rosa, a representative for the trucking group, noted that despite initial assurances, the enforcement actions have continued, stating that it is worrying that officials "no longer want to have a dialogue with us."