Local governments, tribal nations, economic development organizations and private partners are encouraged to apply for the designation.
Source: N.M. Economic Development Department
SANTA FE — Economic Development New Mexico is accepting proposals for Trade Port District designations under the Trade Ports Development Act (HB 19), a new state initiative to build large-scale logistics and industrial hubs that move goods faster and create high-quality jobs across New Mexico.
Existing properties in our broader community with Trade Ports Program designation include: Las Cruces Innovation and Industrial Park, Arrowhead Park, Las Cruces International Airport, Rancho Monte Vista, Avila Industrial Park, Santa Teresa Gateway Rail Park Phase II and Dona Ana County Jetport
Trade Port Districts are hubs that enable goods to move efficiently by truck, rail and air, supporting industries like manufacturing, distribution and advanced logistics.
Local governments, tribal nations, economic development organizations and private partners are encouraged to apply for the designation. Proposed districts may include industrial parks, logistics centers, or other geographic locations with access to infrastructure like highways, rail lines, airports and border crossings.
“This is about making sure New Mexico grows in a way that creates opportunity in every corner of the state,” said Rob Black, cabinet secretary for economic development. “Trade ports give our communities the infrastructure to compete for jobs, support local businesses, and connect to global markets.”
New Mexico’s exports have surged more than 300 percent over the past decade, reaching $15.3 billion in 2025. Now, the state is moving to turn that growth into jobs and long-term economic opportunity.
Exports already support an estimated 14,000 New Mexico jobs and export-related jobs pay up to 18 percent more than the national average, according to the Office of the United States Trade Representative.
The Trade Ports Advisory Committee will review applications for Trade Port Hub designations, with final designations made by the economic development secretary. Approved districts will be eligible for funding through the Trade Ports Development Fund to support planning, infrastructure and project development.
Proposals will be accepted through Friday, June 19, 2026. Application materials and submission guidelines are available at edd.newmexico.gov/trade-ports.
Interested parties are encouraged to schedule a pre-application conference with economic development leadership and staff. For questions about the designation process or coordination support, partners may contact Jackie Thornburg at Jackie.Thornburg@edd.nm.gov.
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