Weekly Customs & Trade Intelligence Bulletin

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Weekly Customs & Trade Intelligence Bulletin

23 January, 2026• Logistics

Customs Law Reform · Import Regulations · Enforcement · Trade Policy
Mexico · United States · Global
Executive Summary | Reference Week 2:  12-01-2026
SEMUDMEX – Strategic Customs & Trade Advisory

1. Executive Overview

Mexico entered a new customs and trade enforcement cycle in 2026. The reform of the Customs Law, combined with stricter General Foreign Trade Rules (RGCE), expanded tariff measures and mandatory digital filings, has significantly increased compliance expectations for importers, exporters and customs brokers.

2. Customs Law Reform – Effective 01 January 2026

  • Expansion of joint and several liability across the logistics chain. (Mexican Customs Law reform, DOF Nov-2025)

Liability now extends to importers, customs brokers, carriers and logistics operators, allowing authorities to recover duties and penalties from any party involved in the import operation.

SEMUDMEX Practical Risk Assessment: Companies are exposed to tax credits and penalties caused by third-party errors; contractual and compliance governance must be reinforced.

  • Reinforced powers for customs audits, inspections and post-clearance reviews. (Mexican Customs Law reform, DOF Nov-2025)

Authorities may initiate broader audits after release, request expanded documentation and reassess duties and taxes.

SEMUDMEX Practical Risk Assessment: Higher probability of retroactive assessments and prolonged audits if documentation is incomplete or inconsistent.

  • Stronger legal linkage between customs value, tariff classification and tax determination. (Mexican Customs Law reform, DOF Nov-2025)

Declared value must be consistent with tariff classification and origin; discrepancies enable tax reassessment.

SEMUDMEX Practical Risk Assessment: Errors may cascade across multiple entries, increasing cumulative exposure.

  • Enhanced digital traceability and evidentiary requirements. (RGCE 2025–2026, SAT)

Importers must maintain structured, electronic and auditable records supporting customs declarations.

SEMUDMEX Practical Risk Assessment: Operational disruption and enforcement risk if digital files are not audit-ready.

3. Electronic Customs Value Declaration (eMV / MVE)

  • Mandatory electronic filing of customs value declaration via VUCEM. (RGCE Rule 1.5.1, SAT)

Importers are directly responsible for transmitting valuation data and supporting documents using e.firma.

SEMUDMEX Practical Risk Assessment: Automated inconsistencies may trigger holds, audits and penalties.

4. Priority Compliance Risk Matrix (2026)

  • Customs valuation inconsistencies. (SAT / ANAM enforcement priorities 2026)

Authorities prioritize valuation accuracy and consistency with commercial and transfer pricing documentation.

SEMUDMEX Practical Risk Assessment: Multi-year reassessments and significant tax exposure.

  • Tariff classification and NICO errors. (Mexican Customs Law; RGCE 2026)

Incorrect classification directly impacts duties, permits and regulatory compliance.

SEMUDMEX Practical Risk Assessment: Retroactive duties, fines and shipment delays.

  • Transit regime non-compliance. (Mexican Customs Law; RGCE)

Route deviations or deadline breaches may invalidate transit regimes.

SEMUDMEX Practical Risk Assessment: Cargo seizures and operational disruption.

  • Incomplete or inconsistent digital customs file. (SAT digital enforcement model)

Incomplete electronic documentation may block clearance or trigger audits.

SEMUDMEX Practical Risk Assessment: Rejections, delays and enforcement actions.

5. Trade & Import Policy – Recent Developments

  • Tariff increases for non-FTA imports effective 01-01-2026. (Federal Executive Decrees; Ministry of Economy)

Tariff rates ranging from 5% to 50% impact automotive, textile, steel and industrial sectors.

SEMUDMEX Practical Risk Assessment: Higher landed cost and retroactive exposure if origin or classification errors exist.

6. Enforcement & Operational Outlook

  • Expanded digital monitoring and post-clearance enforcement. (ANAM operational communications)

Authorities intensify digital monitoring and coordination with tax enforcement units.

SEMUDMEX Practical Risk Assessment: Sustained scrutiny throughout 2026 requires proactive compliance models.

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The Future of Nearshoring in Mexico

10 May, 2024• Logistics, Nearshoring

The landscape of nearshoring in Mexico is at a critical juncture, influenced by two momentous political events: the 2024 Mexican presidential elections and the 2024 U.S. presidential elections. The outcome of these elections could have a significant impact on Mexico’s attractiveness as a destination for the relocation of production operations.

A Complex Scenario of Variables:

Analyzing the future of nearshoring in Mexico involves understanding the complex interplay of variables emanating from both electoral processes.

On the one hand, the elections in Mexico will define the government’s direction in terms of public policies that directly impact nearshoring. A government favorable to foreign investment, modern infrastructure, and streamlined customs processes could generate a climate of stability and confidence, attracting companies interested in relocating.

On the other hand, the outcome of the U.S. elections will also play a fundamental role. A U.S. government that promotes free trade, regulatory collaboration, and reduced migration tensions could create a favorable environment for nearshoring in Mexico. However, an opposite scenario, with protectionist policies, increased migration tensions, or a weakened U.S. dollar, could generate uncertainty and discourage foreign investment.

Beyond the Election Results:

It is important to note that the future of nearshoring in Mexico is not solely dependent on the election results. The country’s competitiveness as a nearshoring destination will also be determined by factors such as:

  • Infrastructure quality: Efficient roads, ports, airports, and telecommunications networks are essential for the logistics and competitiveness of the manufacturing sector.
  • Human capital: A qualified, adaptable workforce with the skills needed for the industries seeking to relocate is a key attraction factor.
  • Regulatory framework: A transparent, predictable legal framework that facilitates investment and trade is essential to build investor confidence.
  • Collaboration between the public and private sectors: Close collaboration between both sectors will be crucial to identify opportunities, design strategies, and overcome obstacles to the development of nearshoring.

Ultimately, the future of nearshoring in Mexico presents a complex and challenging landscape, but also one full of opportunities. The country’s ability to navigate uncertainty, strengthen its competitiveness, and seize the opportunities that arise from the political scenarios will be crucial to consolidate itself as an attractive destination for the relocation of production operations and economic growth.

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Mexico’s IP Advantage

24 April, 2024• Economy, Nearshoring

The relocation of investment flows, known as “nearshoring,” presents an opportunity for Mexico to boost investments in high-value-added technologies, ranging from cloud computing to artificial intelligence and Web3 solutions. However, to fully harness this potential, Mexico must strengthen its IP framework and create an innovation-friendly environment.

The Role of Intellectual Property:

IP plays a crucial role in the nearshoring process, as it provides legal protection for innovative technologies and know-how. A robust IP framework can attract foreign investment and encourage technology transfer, promoting the development of a local technology sector.

Mexico’s Potential:

Mexico is well-positioned to capitalize on the nearshoring trend due to its proximity to the United States, a strong manufacturing base, and a growing pool of skilled talent. However, to fully harness this potential, Mexico must strengthen its IP framework and create an innovation-friendly environment.

Recommendations for Mexico:

To consolidate an attractive innovation ecosystem for technology investors, Mexico should:

  • Update its IP regulations: This includes modernizing copyright, patent, and trademark laws to align with international standards and best practices.
  • Promote coordination among IP institutions: Strengthen collaboration between entities responsible for promoting and protecting IP rights to ensure efficient and effective enforcement.
  • Foster dialogue between the public and private sectors: Establish regular channels of communication to discuss IP-related issues and challenges, and develop joint solutions that benefit all stakeholders.
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US-Mexico Cross-Border Trade Reaches New Heights

2 April, 2024• Economy, Logistics

In a significant turn of events, Mexico has once again emerged as the top trading partner of the United States, surpassing both Canada and China for the year. Trade between the U.S. and Mexico saw a notable 2.5% year-over-year surge, soaring to a staggering $798 billion in 2023. This surge was largely fueled by a remarkable increase in exports of gasoline and other fuels, alongside a surge in imports of passenger vehicles.

Meanwhile, bilateral trade between the U.S. and Canada experienced a slight dip, totaling $773.94 billion, marking a 2.37% decrease from the previous year. On the other hand, China ranked third, and witnessed a significant decline in trade by 16.73% year-over-year, amounting to $575.03 billion.

At the forefront of international trade gateways in the U.S. stood the port of entry in Laredo, Texas, boasting a remarkable total trade value of $320 billion. Remarkably, this marked the first time Laredo clinched the top spot as the nation’s premier trade port for the year.

Laredo’s dominance in cross-border commerce was primarily attributed to its robust trade with Mexico, which tallied an impressive $312 billion in 2023. China secured the second spot for trade through Laredo, although with a significantly lower figure of $1.8 billion.

Experts attribute Mexico’s ascendancy in global trade to the burgeoning trend of nearshoring south of the border, particularly against the backdrop of strained U.S.-China trade relations. The expansion of Mexico’s manufacturing base has emerged as a compelling alternative to production in China, driving increased regional trade and nearshoring activities.

Despite Mexico’s triumphant position as the top U.S. trading partner for the majority of 2023, Canada managed to reclaim the throne in December, boasting trade totaling $61.1 billion. Mexico followed closely behind at $60.4 billion, with China rounding out the top three at $46.1 billion. Throughout the year, the port of entry in Laredo maintained its steadfast position as the premier international trade gateway in the U.S. December saw Laredo’s total commerce soar to $24.4 billion, reinforcing its pivotal role in facilitating trade between the U.S. and Mexico.

The cross-border trade between the U.S. and Mexico underscores the enduring significance of their economic relationship. With millions of cargo trucks crossing the border annually and key ports facilitating substantial trade flows, the symbiotic trade ties between the two nations continue to thrive and evolve.

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The Importance of a Balanced Strategy

26 March, 2024• Economy, Logistics

In the business world, growth is often seen as a sign of success. However, what happens when that growth is too fast and uncontrolled? Is accelerated growth always the best option?

For many transportation companies, keeping trucks constantly moving is crucial for profitability. But with operating costs on the rise, this approach can be unsustainable. Rapid expansion can bring many challenges, from pressure on staff to increased operating costs and potential safety lapses.

The problem arises when a company grows too quickly for its internal infrastructure. Important aspects such as truck maintenance and driver safety can go overlooked amid rapid growth. This can have negative implications for the safety and reputation of the company.

The key to successful growth is a balanced and deliberate approach. Rather than pursuing growth at all costs, companies should focus on sustainable growth that allows them to maintain and improve their internal infrastructure. This may involve hiring additional staff, implementing automation tools, and paying greater attention to risk management.

A company’s long-term success is not solely measured by its size but by its ability to grow sustainably. By adopting a more strategic and balanced approach to growth, companies can mitigate the risks associated with rapid expansion and ensure healthy and sustainable growth in the long term.

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The 2024 Presidential Elections and Supply Chains

19 March, 2024• Economy, Logistics

As the 2024 presidential election approaches, businesses are bracing themselves for potential disruptions to supply chains. With global disruptions already putting stress on U.S. supply chains in the first two months of the year, the looming election adds another layer of uncertainty to the economic landscape.

Predicting the specific impacts of an election on supply chains is challenging due to the complex interplay of various factors. However, historical data can provide insights into potential trends. For example, the election of Donald Trump in 2016 led to increased uncertainty in trade policies, causing businesses to delay investments and stock up on inventory temporarily. Similarly, the trade war between the U.S. and China during the Trump administration contributed to disruptions.

Trade policy is one area where presidential candidates typically have distinct stances, including on trade agreements, tariffs, and foreign relations. Changes in these policies can significantly affect the cost and flow of goods imported and exported from the U.S. Additionally, infrastructure upgrades, regulations, and labor laws can impact transportation efficiency, production costs, and overall supply chain efficiency.

Furthermore, election outcomes can influence consumer confidence and spending patterns, affecting demand for goods and potentially causing temporary disruptions in specific sectors. Immigration policies may exacerbate existing labor shortages, particularly in warehouses.

While the exact nature and extent of the impact of the 2024 election on supply chains remain uncertain, businesses should stay informed about candidates’ platforms and potential policy changes. Additionally, considering other factors influencing the supply chain landscape and utilizing risk management solutions, digital twins, and simulation tools can help businesses better prepare for potential outcomes and mitigate risks. Ultimately, businesses must remain agile and adaptable in navigating the evolving economic and political environment.

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Guanajuato’s Footwear Industry in the Era of Nearshoring

12 March, 2024• Economy, Nearshoring

In recent years, the global trade landscape has undergone significant changes, and amidst this transformation, the state of Guanajuato, recognized as a leader in footwear production in Mexico, emerges as a strong contender to capitalize on the nearshoring phenomenon. According to Héctor Salgado Banda, Secretary of Finance, Investment, and Administration of the state, Guanajuato is ideally positioned to benefit from this trend.

One data point that highlights this potential is the exponential growth in exports of Guanajuato footwear. Over a little more than a decade, these have risen from around 280 million dollars in 2007 to almost 1 billion dollars by the end of 2023. This notable increase, explained by the state official, reflects the vigor and adaptability of the local industry in the face of global market challenges.

Mauricio Blas Battaglia Velázquez, president of the Chamber of the Footwear Industry of Guanajuato (CICEG), underscores the importance of leveraging nearshoring in a competitive environment where China remains a dominant player. He emphasizes the need for innovation and adding value to products to meet the demands of an increasingly discerning consumer.

With over 70% of total footwear production in Mexico concentrated in Guanajuato, with León leading the way, the industry has contributed more than 53 billion pesos over the last 15 years, according to data provided by Battaglia Velázquez. This leadership has prompted the state government to collaborate with industrial chambers to implement initiatives aimed at enhancing the sector’s international competitiveness.

These initiatives include programs to promote innovation and technological development, as well as access to credits that support companies, which represent a crucial source of employment in the region, with around 6,000 sector companies. However, Battaglia Velázquez also calls for corporate social responsibility, urging companies to prioritize the well-being of their workers and contribute to social development and economic mobility in the communities where they operate.

However, despite these achievements and efforts, the footwear industry in Guanajuato faces considerable challenges, especially related to unfair competition. The massive influx of undervalued goods and irregular products, mainly from China, has created a challenging environment for local manufacturers. According to José Antonio Abugaber Andoni, national president of the Confederation of Industrial Chambers (Concamin), approximately 40% of footwear imports into Mexico are made under conditions of alleged undervaluation.

This issue not only affects the economic stability of the sector but is also reflected in Mexico’s trade deficit with China, which reached 95.575 billion dollars in 2023, according to data from the Ministry of Economy.

The sustained growth of footwear exports in Guanajuato and its potential to benefit from nearshoring are encouraging signs for the local industry. However, it faces significant challenges that require a collaborative approach between the private sector and the government to ensure its continued and sustainable growth in an increasingly competitive and globalized market.

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Nearshoring: Challenges and Opportunities for Mexico in 2024

5 March, 2024• Economy, Nearshoring

In recent years, Mexico has emerged as a prime destination for companies looking to relocate their production operations closer to their target markets, in a phenomenon known as nearshoring. This strategy, which involves outsourcing services to geographically nearby countries, has posed a series of challenges and opportunities for the country in 2024, according to a study conducted by experts from Tec de Monterrey.

What is Nearshoring?

Nearshoring is a business strategy that involves relocating some or all commercial or information technology (IT) operations to a provider located in a geographically nearby country. In the current context, this has led to the relocation of production centers from places like China to Mexico, due to the proximity to the United States, one of the main consumer markets worldwide.

Challenges of Nearshoring in Mexico

According to experts, Mexico faces several challenges to fully capitalize on the nearshoring phenomenon in 2024:

1. Integration of value chains: Integrating the states in the central and southern regions with those in the north is crucial for optimizing value chains. Promoting the participation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in these chains, along with large companies, is necessary.

2. Investment in electrical infrastructure: Ensuring adequate electrical supply for companies interested in establishing themselves in Mexico is fundamental. Furthermore, a redefinition of the country’s energy strategy, with a focus on clean energy sources, is required.

3. Security: Improving public and business security is essential to attract foreign direct investment and ensure a conducive environment for economic growth.

4. Water scarcity: Water management is a significant challenge, especially in regions like Nuevo León. An industrial policy addressing this issue and making these regions attractive for investment is needed.

5. Talent development: Promoting skills and talent development is crucial to maintain competitiveness and ensure equitable participation in the benefits of nearshoring.

6. Pollution and mobility: Addressing issues such as pollution and traffic congestion is essential to improve quality of life and attract investments.

7. Increased technological investment: The implementation of digital technologies will be key to optimizing operations, especially in border areas such as customs.

8. Financing for SMEs: Small and medium-sized enterprises need access to financing and technical support to expand their operations and ensure product quality.

Opportunities of Nearshoring in Mexico

Despite the challenges, nearshoring also offers significant opportunities for Mexico in 2024:

1. Job creation: Increased foreign direct investment can translate into the creation of better-paying jobs in sectors such as automotive, electronics, and manufacturing in general.

2. Boost to STEAM careers: Nearshoring will demand talent in areas of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, providing opportunities for professionals and students in these fields.

3. Opportunities for tech entrepreneurs: Entrepreneurs can capitalize on the growth of nearshoring by providing cross-cutting, financial, logistical, and technological services.

Nearshoring represents both challenges and opportunities for Mexico in 2024. To fully capitalize on this phenomenon, the country must address pending challenges while capitalizing on the opportunities it offers, with a focus on value chain integration, talent development, and the promotion of innovation and technological investment.

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8 Steps to Importing from China to Mexico

27 February, 2024• Economy, Logistics

Importing goods from China to Mexico can be a lucrative venture for businesses looking to diversify their offerings or tap into new markets. However, navigating the complexities of international trade requires careful planning and execution. To help streamline the process, here are eight steps to streamline your business venture. 

Step 1: Check Trade Laws

Ensure compliance with current regulations and restrictions for both exporting from China and importing to Mexico. Stay informed about changes in policies and identify necessary documents for smooth customs clearance.

Step 2: Decide What to Import

Research the demand for your products in Mexico and assess potential profitability. Consider market trends and customer preferences to make informed decisions about your merchandise selection.

Step 3: Choose a Shipping Method

Select a shipping method based on the type, weight, and quantity of your products. Options may vary, so seek recommendations if needed to ensure efficient transportation.

Step 4: Find a Supplier

Establish relationships with Chinese suppliers that offer quality goods aligned with your business needs. Utilize various methods such as online platforms, business fairs, or sourcing companies to connect with reliable suppliers.

Step 5: Estimate Tax Liability

Anticipate taxes and fees, including the 16% value-added tax applied by Mexican customs. Stay informed about trade regulations to avoid unexpected expenses and ensure compliance.

Step 6: Define Incoterms

Familiarize yourself with Incoterms to clarify responsibilities and liabilities between buyers and sellers during international transactions. Define terms related to payments, insurance, and customs procedures.

Step 7: Customs Clearance

Understand the stages of customs clearance, including information entry, declaration, assessment, permit acquisition, cost payment, warehousing, and goods exit. Ensure thorough preparation to expedite the clearance process.

Step 8: Hire a Freight Forwarder

Engage a reputable freight forwarder with experience in international shipping to manage transportation logistics. Benefit from professional assistance in handling inventory from factory to final destination.

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China’s Export Boom to the US Despite Economic Challenges

21 February, 2024• Economy, Logistics

In an interesting turn of events, the trade landscape between China and the United States presents a paradox: while China grapples with a series of economic challenges, including dwindling consumer confidence and a turbulent stock market, the volume of ocean container freight flowing from China to the US is surging, reaching its highest levels since May 2022.

The surge in shipments can partly be attributed to the customary pre-Chinese New Year rush, during which factories in China expedite the movement of goods to ports before the holiday hiatus. However, this year’s peak transcends the typical patterns seen in previous years, with container volumes steadily mounting despite the backdrop of economic uncertainty in China.

China’s manufacturing sector, as reflected in the Purchasing Managers’ Index, has contracted for the fourth consecutive month, signaling a downturn in industrial activity. Compounding these woes, the liquidation proceedings of Evergrande, one of China’s largest property developers, loom large, with significant debts overshadowing its assets. Moreover, Chinese stocks have witnessed a downward spiral, with major indices experiencing substantial declines over the past year.

Against this backdrop, the question arises: Why is the port of Shanghai, among others, witnessing an unprecedented surge in shipping volumes despite China’s sluggish GDP growth, which hit a 21st-century low of 5.3% in 2023?

It appears that rather than being driven by a resurgence in China’s manufacturing prowess, the surge in shipping volumes is propelled by the robust demand from US importers. Inventory levels in the US have depleted significantly, with inventory-to-sales ratios falling below pre-pandemic levels. Simultaneously, retail sales in the US have exceeded expectations, indicating strong consumer demand.

The months ahead are poised to be favorable for US ports, particularly those on the West Coast. Low inventory levels coupled with robust economic growth necessitate the swift movement of goods, tightening transportation capacity and leading to increased freight rates.

However, global supply chains face additional challenges stemming from geopolitical tensions. Attacks in the Red Sea have disrupted international shipping routes, compelling vessels to circumvent the Suez Canal, thus prolonging transit times and reducing available container ship capacity. These disruptions, coinciding with heightened shipping volumes from China, have propelled spot rates on the trans-Pacific route to record highs.

Commenting on the impact of these disruptions, Dave Bozeman, CEO of C.H. Robinson, highlighted the strain on global supply chains and the resultant escalation in container rates. With the Red Sea crisis showing no signs of abating, the strain on capacity and elevated spot rates are expected to persist, at least in the near term.

Data from the Port of Los Angeles further corroborates the surge in container volumes, with TEU volumes in Week 6 registering a substantial increase compared to the previous year.

So, while China grapples with economic headwinds, its role as a key driver of global trade remains unyielding. The surge in container shipments to the US underscores the resilience of trade dynamics amid challenging times, albeit with complexities and disruptions that necessitate agile responses from stakeholders across the supply chain.

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