Mexico exits U.S. piracy watch list—but challenges linger for enforcement
Mexico has been removed from the U.S. government’s priority watch list for piracy after years of enforcement efforts. The decision follows steps taken by the current administration to tackle illegal distribution of copyrighted material. Yet experts warn that challenges remain in fully addressing the issue. In late April, the U.S. Trade Representative officially took Mexico off its priority watch list—a designation reserved for countries with severe intellectual property violations. The move came as Mexican authorities ramped up anti-piracy measures, including Operativo Limpieza, a crackdown involving customs agencies to seize counterfeit goods.
Despite progress, piracy still costs Mexico 63 billion pesos annually, according to business group Concanaco-Servytur. The illegal trade threatens around 70,000 jobs and represents 1.25% of the country’s GDP, the highest rate in Latin America, per ASIPI data. Former IMPI director Santiago Nieto Castillo acknowledged that unresolved issues persist, particularly in enforcing takedowns of pirate websites. A pending Supreme Court ruling on whether blocking or removing such sites is constitutional could shape future enforcement. Legal specialists like Aurora López-Portillo of ClarkeModet argue that IMPI, Mexico’s intellectual property institute, lacks the staff and resources to use its expanded powers effectively. Miguel Ángel Margáin, another former IMPI director, echoed concerns, stating that without more personnel and funding, enforcement will remain limited.
The removal from the U.S. watch list marks a step forward for Mexico’s anti-piracy efforts. However, experts stress that stronger enforcement, more resources, and a favourable court ruling are needed to reduce economic losses and job threats. The government’s next moves will determine whether the progress can be sustained long-term.
