Urban logistics in Latin America faces major challenges, including congestion, pollution, and high operating costs. To address these, CAF—the development bank of Latin America and the Caribbean—has launched the LOGUS strategy (Sustainable and Safe Urban Logistics).
This roadmap aims to modernize urban logistics in Latin America through integrated public policies, modern infrastructure, and technological innovation. One of its flagship projects is located in Santa Fe, Argentina.
Santa Fe as a model for urban logistics in Latin America
CAF approved a USD 150 million loan to support the Comprehensive Urban and Metropolitan Logistics Program for the Gran Rosario Port Complex.
The project enhances connections between urban areas and port terminals, reduces environmental impacts, and boosts regional competitiveness.
Key components include:
- Widening of the Rosario–Santa Fe highway with a third lane to the Timbúes port area
- A new road link between Provincial Route 91 and the port terminals, bypassing city zones
- Paving and improving port access routes
- Implementing smart logistics technologies to reduce delays and improve freight flow
These improvements will cut logistics costs, ease congestion, and benefit over 1.5 million residents.
Read more: CNG Conversion in Renault Argentina Vehicles: Eco-Friendly Solution with Official Warranty.
Sustainability, efficiency and interinstitutional coordination
LOGUS is built on three strategic pillars:
- Impact mitigation through denser, more organized urban development
- Modal shift with electric vehicles and low-emission cargo solutions
- System optimization by integrating infrastructure, regulations, and technology
Beyond infrastructure, the program encourages collaboration between governments, private companies, and communities. Santa Fe demonstrates that urban logistics in Latin America can become both efficient and sustainable.
A replicable approach for the region
This pioneering effort in Santa Fe aligns with other CAF-led initiatives in Cali (Colombia), Fortaleza (Brazil), and Cuenca (Ecuador). As more cities face the pressure of urban growth, the Santa Fe project offers a clear example of how urban logistics in Latin America can evolve to meet environmental and economic goals.
