Mexico enacts amendments to the federal law governing firearms and explosives regulation
Mexico strengthens national defense and weapons control with newly enacted measures
In a well-publicized decree, the Mexican Government has outlined a series of measures to regulate the possession and use of weapons, ammunition, and related materials, as well as to bolster international cooperation in addressing illegal firearms trafficking. The decree, published in the Official Gazette of the Federation on the 20th of May, grants the Secretary of National Defense the power to authorize the use of weapons for necessities, while also allowing foreign migration and customs agents, duly accredited to the Federal Government, temporary possession of weapons for migrant control operations at international transit points.
The central objective of this legislative reform is to regulate activities related to firearms, ammunition, explosive devices, connected chemical substances, and their respective components and accessories. The law aims to strengthen state control over weapons, update the existing framework, and toughen penalties for the trafficking and illegal use of weapons. Additionally, the Federal Executive, state, and municipal governments of Mexico City are required to carry out ongoing educational campaigns to promote a culture of peace and disarmament.
The newly enacted measures also extend to privately-owned vehicles, prohibiting the use of those armed with modifications for weapon installation. Furthermore, the possession of firearms manufactured through 3D printing or craftsmanship is now strictly forbidden.
These actions come amid increased cooperation between Mexico and the United States in addressing gun trafficking and cartel-related violence. In May 2025, high-level meetings between both nations resulted in a commitment to dismantle fentanyl supply chains and combat cartels, including the Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation cartels. Both countries have pledged to increase cooperation in combating firearms trafficking from the U.S. into Mexico. Cross-border initiatives such as Operation Southbound (led by the U.S. ATF) and Operation Desert Lightning (led by DHS) aim to disrupt trafficking routes and increase arms seizure operations.
In summary, the Mexican Government recently enacted a series of measures to strengthen national defense and control over weapons, ammunition, and related materials. These measures are part of an ongoing effort to address illegal firearms trafficking and promote a culture of peace and disarmament in the country. The recent legislative reform is supported by enhanced cooperation with the United States to combat cartel activity and gun trafficking.
What are the new measures outlined by the Mexican Government to strengthen national defense and control over weapons and related materials? They consist of regulations to govern firearms, ammunition, explosives, and associated items; a focus on state control over weapons to reduce illegal use and trafficking; penalties for offenders are being toughened; foreign agents conducting migrant control and customs operations may temporarily possess weapons; privately-owned vehicles with weapon installation modifications are prohibited; and the possession of firearms produced through 3D printing or craftsmanship is now illegal. Furthermore, the Federal Government, state, and municipal governments in Mexico City are mandated to launch ongoing educational campaigns to foster a culture of peace and disarmament. These measures are part of an increased cooperation between Mexico and the United States to combat cartel activity and gun trafficking.
