Construction on the Amigo liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal in Sonora is on hold after a federal court issued a temporary suspension. This decision affects not just the project’s timeline but also raises concerns for local communities, environmental advocates, and the vibrant marine life of the Gulf of California.
The terminal, planned for Catalina Bay near Guaymas, was expected to facilitate the importation of natural gas from the U.S., converting it to liquid for export to Asian markets. A federal judge’s ruling is now preventing any immediate construction while the court reviews an amparo—an appeal regarding constitutional rights—filed by the environmental group Nuestro Futuro.
This suspension underscores growing opposition to LNG developments in the Gulf of California, an area rich in biodiversity and recognized for its ecological significance. Often referred to as the “aquarium of the world,” the Gulf is home to a UNESCO World Heritage area and critical marine species, including the endangered vaquita.
The Guaymas National Port System Administration, a federal entity, had granted Amigo LNG rights to 36 hectares for the terminal without a public bidding process. Critics argue that such agreements can bypass necessary scrutiny, especially in regions where environmental laws are stringent.
Environmental groups have voiced concerns about the potential impact of increased shipping traffic on marine life. They assert that the project could threaten vulnerable species while also raising doubts about whether sufficient information has been provided to assess the risks adequately.
As the court deliberates on the environmental group’s challenge, the suspension prevents any construction from starting. Authorities, including Mexico’s Agency for Safety, Energy and Environment, anticipate that the hold could last until the legal issues are resolved. The outcome of this case may have significant implications for future energy projects in Mexico, particularly in areas as ecologically sensitive as the Gulf of California.