[4] Since the second half of the 20th century, physical changes have ceased, after which came a degradation of the area due to national economic stagnation.

Because of the density of industrial development in the area surrounding the port, the residential popularity is relatively low.

The main environmental problems are subaquatic sedimentation and air and water contamination.

[4] The port has been growing rapidly and consistently at an average annual rate of 14 percent due to an increase in foreign trade.

The city has received a $20 million loan from the Inter-American Development Bank to modernize the port, increase its size and efficiency, and lower maritime and river transportation costs.