The IMMEX (Industria Manufacturera, Maquiladora y de Servicios de Exportación) program, established in 2006 by the Mexican government, was designed to promote foreign investment, boost manufacturing, and increase exports from Mexico. It allows companies to temporarily import goods duty-free into Mexico – if these goods are used in manufacturing or processing for export.
By deferring import duties and taxes, IMMEX incentivizes businesses to establish operations in Mexico, particularly within the maquiladora industry. IMMEX has become a cornerstone of Mexico’s trade strategy, making supply chains more cost effective for industries ranging from electronics to textiles.
To illustrate IMMEX in action, a US-based electronics manufacturer could ship components such as circuit boards and semiconductors duty-free to a maquiladora in Mexico – either through the US or direct into Mexico. At this facility, the goods would be assembled into finished products, such as smartphones or laptops. Once assembly is complete, the finished items are exported back to the US, often at a lower overall cost than if the entire manufacturing process had occurred domestically.
The IMMEX program defers import duties and taxes during this process, creating cost savings while allowing the US manufacturer to benefit from Mexico’s lower labor costs, reduced transportation expenses, and robust trade infrastructure.
Maurice Joseph, Chief Operating Officer at Weber Logistics, explains, “This new administration in Mexico was under pressure to increase revenue and ensure compliance across IMMEX-certified entities. Many companies found themselves under scrutiny for practices that didn't meet certification standards.”
The changes had significant implications for shippers importing high-duty goods like apparel, textiles, and home goods. However, the Mexican government recently suspended these restrictions for six months, citing concerns raised by compliant companies.
“While the pause is welcome news for some, it also highlights the need for shippers to ensure their supply chain partners are operating by the rules. This is an opportunity to reevaluate relationships and mitigate future risks,” Joseph adds.
The Mexican government alleged that companies were abusing the program, with bad actors in the apparel and 3PL industries coming under the most scrutiny.
In the apparel industry, reported violations include the following.
In the 3PL industry, issues arise from service providers offering fulfillment and distribution services under IMMEX without adhering to the program’s stringent requirements. Specific violations are as follows.
Mexico’s tightened enforcement reflects its commitment to protecting local industries and ensuring compliance. For US shippers and manufacturers using IMMEX, the following guidelines are crucial to remaining compliant.
The IMMEX program’s evolution ties into broader trends like nearshoring. As tariffs on imports from Asia increase, many US companies are exploring Mexico as a strategic alternative.
“Nearshoring is already gaining traction, but these regulatory shifts could make Mexico even more attractive for fulfillment and distribution,” Joseph notes. However, shippers must stay vigilant about compliance as Mexico enforces stricter standards.
While Weber Logistics does not currently operate under IMMEX, it supports clients with cross-border logistics and transloading services at the US-Mexico border. “We’ve long performed cross-border transloading services in San Diego, helping clients seamlessly move goods from Mexico to their US distribution points,” Joseph notes.
The evolving IMMEX landscape underscores the importance of due diligence and trusted partnerships. Weber Logistics is in your corner to help you understand the complexities of cross-border distribution and to provide you with efficient, compliant solutions. Contact us today to learn more about our services and capabilities.