Manzanillo’s port business began booming in recent years, improving both the economy and quality of life dramatically in the region. Port business experienced a significant surge during the longshoremen’s strike in 2002, and the harbor was deepened and modernized to accommodate all major shipping lines from around the world. In 2004, the Port of Manzanillo surpassed Vera Cruz as Mexico's largest port based on volume of cargo. As Mexico’s leading Pacific port, Manzanillo is now larger than many well-known cities, such as Puerto Vallarta.

Known as the “Sailfish Capital of the World,” Manzanillo also boasts the most efficient port for tuna landings in Mexico and hosts two major fishing tournaments a year. Fishing enthusiasts catch record numbers of sailfish, marlin, and dorado.