Mexico advocates for substantial modifications in customs and tariffs as part of the 2026 Economic Plan
On the 9th of September 2025, the President of Mexico presented two significant trade-related initiatives to the Chamber of Deputies, marking a shift in the country's trade and industrial policy. These initiatives, aimed at promoting import substitution, industrial strengthening, and tighter customs enforcement, could have substantial impacts on companies engaged in cross-border trade.
One of the initiatives is a proposal to amend the Customs Law (Ley Aduanera), introducing stricter compliance obligations, expanded use of digital tools, and enhanced liability for customs brokers and importers. The reform focuses on tightening control mechanisms and broadening liability in customs operations. If passed, these Customs Law reforms could enter into force as early as 1 January 2026, aligning with the fiscal year.
The other initiative is a reform to the General Import and Export Tariffs Law (LIGIE). This reform proposes tariff increases across 1,463 product classifications in the Mexican tariff schedule. The main sectors affected by these increases include automotive and auto parts, plastics and chemicals, footwear and leather goods, textiles and apparel, steel and aluminum, furniture, wood products, paper and cardboard, toys, sporting goods, and household goods. The tariff increases under the LIGIE reform reiterate approximately 41% of the tariff increases already implemented through the 2024 decrees, while the remaining 59% are being newly implemented.
The LIGIE reform also proposes duties ranging up to 35% (and in some cases 50%) on imports from countries without a free trade agreement with Mexico. However, tariff increases have been taking place on a Most Favored Nation basis, exempting imports originating from countries with which Mexico has Free Trade Agreements.
The reform specifically targets the monitoring of IMMEX operations, limiting perceived abuses and restricting certain finished goods from being processed under IMMEX. This reform, along with the Customs Law reform, aims to strengthen customs enforcement and combat irregularities in cross-border trade.
Key contacts for the international Trade team, who will continue to follow Congress discussions and updates to both initiatives, include Francisco de Rosenzweig, Carlos Vejar, and Karen Luna. The responsible entity for overseeing and implementing these changes is typically the relevant governmental authority in charge of customs and economic regulations in the respective country, often the Ministry of Finance or Customs Authority; however, the exact organization or person is not identified in the provided information.
Political pressure is mounting to approve these measures before 15 December 2025, when the current ordinary session closes. The 2025 Customs Law reform, presented as part of the 2026 Economic Package, is widely viewed as the most significant update since 1995.
These initiatives reflect the administration's commitment to strengthening Mexico's industrial sector and enhancing customs enforcement, which could have significant implications for companies operating in or exporting to Mexico. It is essential for businesses to stay informed and prepare for these changes as they progress through the legislative process.
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