This Friday marks the first year of the signing of the letter of understanding (LOA) between the governments of the US and Guatemala for the modernization and expansion of the commercial docks of the Empresa Portuaria Quetzal (EPQ), in Escuintla.
The agreement has followed the execution of a schedule that, in general, covers different areas of analysis, studies and field research, and for the second semester a total definition of the cost is expected, so that the construction process can then begin, which will be in charge of the United States Army Corps of Engineers (Usace). The LOA was signed on May 22, 2025.
Guatemala has already made a first disbursement of US$63.7 million and it is expected to complete the financing of the project after the data of the estimate of the critical infrastructure work is known, which includes the construction of docks 5, 6, 7 and 8, that is, enabling new areas for carrying out import and export operations in the EPQ.
The estimate of the cost and budgetary mechanisms that will finance The project will be known in the second semester.
In January of this year, the LOA was expanded for the construction of a cargo rail connection that will connect the EPQ with Escuintla, a project known as the Multimodal Logistics Station, as well as six land circuits.
EPQ project enters key phase
In an interview with Free press, The Minister of Defense, Henry Saénz, explained some of the stages developed and what is coming in the coming months. The constant has been the meetings between the various specialized technical teams, prior to the construction stage at the site.
In general terms, he indicated that the EPQ modernization program is advancing in the preparation of feasibility and engineering studies, which exceed 35% and are being developed according to plan.
This part consists of an initial design phase that has already made it possible to define the main axes and technical requirements, prepare preliminary schemes and establish cost estimates, so this progress reflects solid and well-structured technical work.
On the other hand, there are joint coordination between EPQ and Usace, with exchange of information, development of specialized workshops and permanent technical support.
EPQ studies will advance to 65%
In the schedule for the following semester, it is expected to advance in the technical consolidation, as well as in the preparation to execute works in the field.
The minister explained that it includes the integration of the results of the so-called intensive design workshop, the incorporation of technical observations derived from specialized reviews, as well as the more precise definition of port development alternatives.
The EPQ modernization program is advancing in the preparation of feasibility and engineering studies, which exceed 35% and are being developed according to plan.
On the other hand, the cost estimate would be finalized, which will guide future investment decisions.
In the studies, both feasibility and engineering, it is expected to advance from 35% to 65% in different activities.
For example, in feasibility studies, the project report will be presented between the parties on June 4; The economic analysis will take place from June 5 to August 3; the FWOP economic analysis (forward), from August 4, 2026 to January 27, 2027; the environmental and social analysis, from June 5 to August 3, 2026, as well as other technical analyzes.
Regarding engineering studies, 35% of the design package is expected in May; the design review between May and June; coastal hydrodynamic modeling between January and December 2026; geotechnical investigation between March and August; 65% of the design package between June and November; the design review between December 2026 and March 2027, and the review of 95% of the design package between December 2026 and March 2027.
The design package meeting will take place between April and May 2027, according to the schedule.
EPQ project enters financial phase
While the project is in feasibility and engineering studies, financing has already begun to be planned for the expansion of commercial docks 5, 6, 7 and 8, so it is expected in next October a more defined resultas explained by Vice Admiral Juan Antonio Lemus Guzmán, president of the EPQ.
To this end, he confirmed that there is coordination with the Ministry of Public Finance (Minfin), since it could be, for example, a loan line with a long-term international financial organization, although there is nothing official yet. The use of other public credit operating instruments is also contemplated.