The Government of Guatemala has announced that the concession to operate and maintain Guatemala’s Palín-Escuintla highway comes to an end for Mexico-based Grupo Marhnos after 25 years. 

The government said the contract would not be renewed because it received 1% of Marhnos' gross revenues for the 25-year concession, which is only GTQ21.4 million (US$2.75 million). The construction of the 29.6 km road began in 1996 with financial support from the government of Guatemala. In 1997, Grupo Marhnos received a contract for the operation and maintenance of the highway. The agreement was approved in 1998 and the group began operating the road and collecting tolls. 

The highway has become one of the main routes for the Guatemalan public and freight carriers between the Palin area and the south coast. From May 1, toll collection will disappear, but some types of vehicles will not be allowed to use the motorway, especially heavy vehicles with six axles or more. Maintenance will be carried out by the government.