Mexico’s bold water reforms spark backlash from farmers and truckers
Mexico’s government, under President Claudia Sheinbaum, has proposed significant changes to water laws. The new legislation, dubbed the 'news' General Water Law and updates to the National Water Law, aims to protect water as a human right and a common good. However, the plans have already sparked opposition from farmers and truckers, who are concerned about the potential impact on their livelihoods.
The reforms include tighter control over water use and stricter penalties for theft, with the government becoming the sole body allowed to grant water concessions. Private transfers of these rights will be banned, though landowners can still pass on concessions when selling property—provided the water use remains unchanged. A national water reserve will also be set up to ensure access for indigenous and marginalised communities.
The legislation takes a tougher stance on water theft, with heavier fines and stronger enforcement. Truckers, who often face risks during water transport, have called for federal action to improve security on highways. Meanwhile, farmers have raised concerns about the reforms, seeking higher guaranteed prices for their crops and fearing the new rules could restrict their water access.
The government has not yet set a date for the legislation’s approval, but officials insist the changes are necessary to safeguard water as a strategic resource and a basic right for all citizens. The proposed water laws would centralise control over concessions and create new protections for vulnerable communities. Farmers and truckers, however, remain wary of the potential impact on their livelihoods. The reforms now await further debate before becoming law.
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