Mexico’s Customs Law Reform 2026: What Changed and Why It Matters

International trade in Mexico is entering a new regulatory phase.

On November 19, 2025, the Mexican government published a comprehensive reform to the Customs Law (Ley Aduanera) in the Diario Oficial de la Federación (DOF). These changes will enter into force on January 1, 2026 and significantly impact importers, exporters, customs brokers, and logistics operators.

At Flux Forwarders, we believe understanding regulatory risk is just as important as moving cargo.

One of the Most Important Changes: Time-Limited Customs Broker Licenses

From indefinite to time-bound validity

One of the most structural changes affects customs broker patents (patentes de agente aduanal).

Before 2026

• Customs broker licenses were granted with indefinite validity, subject mainly to compliance and sanctions.

Starting January 1, 2026

• Customs broker patents will have a 20-year validity
• They may be renewed once for an additional 20 years
• Renewal must be requested during the final year of validity
• Brokers must maintain compliance and certification

📖 Legal basis:

• Article 159, Ley Aduanera (reformed)
• Fourth Transitory Article, DOF 19/11/2025

Mandatory Recertification Every 3 Years

Another major compliance shift:

Customs brokers must now recertify every three years to keep their patent active.

Failure to comply may result in:

• Suspension
• Invalidation of the patent
• Loss of operational authorization

📖 Legal basis:

• Article 159, final paragraph, Ley Aduanera (reformed)

Why This Matters to Importers and Freight Forwarders

This reform increases accountability and professional oversight, but it also introduces new operational risks.

Key implications:

• Importers must ensure their customs broker is properly certified and current
• Any lapse in a broker’s compliance can delay or stop cargo clearance
• Freight forwarders must work with verified, compliant customs partners
• Documentation, audits, and due diligence become more critical than ever

Increased Oversight and Regulatory Control

The reform also strengthens:

• The authority of the Customs Council (Consejo Aduanero)
• Suspension and cancellation procedures
• Requirements related to:
  Valuation
  Origin documentation
  Inventory controls
  Digital traceability
  Risk analysis systems

This reflects a broader shift toward risk-based enforcement and digital customs control.

What This Means for Your Supply Chain

Customs clearance in Mexico is no longer just an operational step — it is a compliance risk point.

Companies that fail to adapt may face:

• Demurrage and storage costs
• Cargo holds
• Administrative penalties
• Disrupted supply chains

How Flux Forwarders Supports Clients Under the New Law

At Flux Forwarders, we do not operate as a rate-dumping broker.

We act as a coordination and risk-management partner, working closely with:

• Certified customs brokers
• Port-side operators
• International partners in the U.S., China, and Europe

Our role is to help clients:

• Understand regulatory exposure
• Anticipate compliance risks
• Maintain control when operations don’t go as planned

Final Thoughts

Mexico’s Customs Law reform for 2026 marks a clear shift toward tighter control, accountability, and professional certification.

Understanding these changes is no longer optional — it’s essential for anyone moving cargo through Mexico.

📍 Based in Mexico. Coordinating globally. Managing risk where it matters most.