5 Minutes with… Nicolas Rosales, President of the Mexican Association of Transport and Mobility

Intertraffic: Can you introduce yourself?

Nicolas Rosales (NR): I’m Nicolas Rosales, a mobility specialist with over ten years of experience in the industry. For the past six years, I’ve been honored to serve as the President of the Mexican Association of Transport and Mobility (AMTM). Since Intertraffic was established in Mexico, I’ve actively participated as a member of the advisory board, which has allowed me to witness the evolution of transportation in Mexico and Latin America, as well as the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Intertraffic: How did you get into the mobility sector?
(NR): My journey began in childhood when my family ventured into public transport, establishing a micro-enterprise of ten concessioned public transport units. We took on the responsibilities of administration, operation, and maintenance, immersing ourselves in the intricacies of the industry. In 2005, with the launch of the BRT system, we seized the opportunity to become partners in Mexico City’s first Metrobus line, paving the way for collaborations with other transport companies in the years that followed. This experience ignited my passion for mobility and shaped my career in the sector.

Intertraffic: What has been the biggest challenge you've faced in the mobility sector?
(NR): There are three key challenges I see as priorities:

I. Developing Supportive Public Policies: We need public policies that facilitate the growth of public transport in the short, medium, and long term. This includes comprehensive plans, programs, and operational guidelines that provide legal certainty for all stakeholders involved.

II. Sector Modernization: Transitioning from the traditional man-truck model to a more professionalized transport system is essential. This change not only enhances efficiency but also elevates the status and training of transport operators, paving the way for a more sustainable industry.

III. Innovative Financing Models: We require financing schemes and tax incentives that support this transition and promote business models capable of ensuring the financial sustainability of transport systems. Creating a robust financial framework is crucial for driving long-term success in mobility.

Addressing these challenges will be pivotal in shaping a more effective and sustainable mobility landscape in our cities.

Intertraffic: What does the future of the mobility sector look like to you?
NR: I believe that we have a long way to go to be able to have a transport system that meets the needs of both users (coverage, quality, safety, efficiency, inclusion) and cities (less impact on the environment, CO2 emissions, reduction in travel times and accidents).

Important steps have been taken in some cities, but that is not enough. We must continue pushing forward to create a comprehensive mobility ecosystem that truly serves everyone involved.