COATZACOALCOS

city, southeastern Veracruz estado (state), south-central Mexico. Formerly known as Puerto Mxico, it lies at the mouth of the Coatzacoalcos River on the Gulf of Campeche, at the narrowest segment of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. A transportation centre, it is served by the main rail line and highway from Veracruz to Campeche and Mrida and is also the northern terminus of the trans-Isthmian railway. Coatzacoalcos is also an important port. Petroleum products from Minatitln to the south are transported via the river; the city exports local hardwoods, cereals, and manufactured items, principally to Yucatn. Pop. (1980) 127,170.