Mexico Steel and Aluminum Import Requirements

On April 15, 2024, the Mexican Ministry of Economy published modifications in the Mexican Official Gazette to the general rules and criteria for foreign trade, including a provision for steel importers. Steel importers now must register in the Importers Registry for Steel Products and apply for IMMEX program accreditation.

U.S. exporters may experience increased documentation demands from Mexican buyers and importers requesting information to meet the Ministry of Economy’s requirements.

Be aware that 72 HTS tariff classifications have been added to cover a broader range of steel and aluminum products. Mexican importers are required to identify which certificate must be presented to the Mexican government and to specify the name of the mill from which the products originate. The mill should be selected from the catalog displayed on the Digital Window for Foreign Trade, and it must be registered with the Mexican Ministry of Economy.

Additionally, Mexican importers must provide either the Mill Certificate for tariff classifications falling within headings 7206 to 7216, 7218 to 7228, and 7304, or the Quality Certificate for tariff classifications falling within headings 7202, 7217, 7229, 7301, 7302, and from 7305 onwards.

For more detailed legal information, go to:

https://www.dof.gob.mx/nota_detalle.php?codigo=5723261&fecha=15/04/2024#gsc.tab=0

https://www.snice.gob.mx/~oracle/SNICE_DOCS/BOLETIN002-2024-R8-BOLETIN_20240415-20240415.pdf

The U.S. Commercial Service in Mexico can assist U.S. exporters in resolving customs-related issues. For inquiries specifically related to the steel sector, please contact Mario Vidana at Mario.Vidana@trade.gov. If you encounter any issues with Mexican Customs, please ask Manny, at Manuel.Velazquez@trade.gov.

The Mexican government has established temporary import tariffs ranging from 5% to 50% for 544 HS codes.