The Chamber of Deputies approved in general the ruling that reforms various tariff sections of the General Import and Export Tax Law (LIGIE) , an initiative promoted by the president of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, to adjust the country’s tariff policy and strengthen strategic sectors of Mexican manufacturing.

The project received 281 votes in favor , 149 abstentions and 24 against , advancing towards its discussion in particular.

According to the opinion prepared by the Commission on Economy, Commerce and Competitiveness , based on consultations with more than 40 business chambers, associations and companies, the reform contemplates modifications to 1,463 tariff classifications that cover industries such as auto parts, light vehicles, textiles, footwear, household appliances, plastics, steel, aluminum, furniture, paper and cardboard, toys, glass and motorcycles, among other sectors.

However, the approved ruling modified approximately 60% of the original initiative . For example, inputs for lipsticks saw their tariff reduced from 50% to 36%, and some textile products also experienced reductions to 36%. In contrast, tariffs on cars and auto parts remained at 50% .

The initiative proposes that tariffs cease to serve solely as a revenue-generating tool and become an instrument of industrial policy. The aim is to boost domestic production , encourage import substitution, and promote supply chains with greater regional content , in line with the 2025-2030 National Development Plan and the Plan México strategy.

According to the report, the massive influx of goods from countries without trade agreements with Mexico, primarily China, South Korea, India, Vietnam, Thailand, Brazil, Indonesia, and Taiwan , has put pressure on local competitiveness. The tariff lines subject to adjustment represent 8.3% of total imports in 2024 .

The Center for Public Finance Studies (CEFP) estimated that the changes could translate into productive benefits , greater use of installed capacity (currently at 81.2% in manufacturing) and a boost to import substitution , although it warned that it is not possible to accurately calculate the revenue impact due to a lack of updated data on volumes and elasticities.

The CEFP also concluded that the inflationary effect would be “limited,” given that the affected goods have a low weight in the National Consumer Price Index (INPC) and there is the possibility of substituting imports from countries with trade agreements. Even in the most extreme scenario—which is unlikely—the impact would be close to 0.30 percentage points.

For three months, the Commission held working sessions with chambers of commerce and companies from the affected sectors, as well as a permanent technical working group with the Ministry of Economy . As a result, the ruling incorporates modifications to the original proposal , reducing some of the tariffs initially proposed for cosmetics, plastics, soaps, footwear, textiles, and other goods, in order to balance industrial protection with competitiveness and production transition times.

The document states that this process strengthened certainty for supply chains and allows progress towards a more robust industrial model, with greater national content and better regional integration.

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El cargo Lawmakers approve tariff reform to boost national industry apareció primero en T21.

The National Chamber of Air Transport (Canaero) called for dialogue between Mexican and US authorities to reach a solution, following the cancellation of 13 scheduled routes to the United States from the Mexico City International Airport (AICM)  and  Felipe Ángeles Airport (AIFA)  by the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) .

The organization noted that this decision impacts the operations of Mexican passenger and cargo airlines , and indicated that the Mexican aviation sector recognizes the importance of maintaining a bilateral relationship based on cooperation , certainty, and mutual benefit .

In response, he asked the Mexican government and its US counterparts to “strengthen the channels of dialogue that allow for solutions to be reached that restore the conditions of competition and connectivity between both countries as soon as possible.”

“The chamber reiterated its willingness to work in a coordinated manner with the various actors in the sector, in order to identify alternatives that mitigate the impact on passengers, companies and logistics chains, and that contribute to the continuity of air services for the benefit of trade, tourism and regional economic integration,” Canaero highlighted in a statement.

The organization expressed confidence that open and constructive dialogue will allow progress towards a framework of cooperation that preserves Mexico’s interests , strengthens the sustainable development of the national aviation sector, and safeguards the interests of passengers.

Meanwhile, Víctor Manuel Pérez Díaz, president of the Communications and Transportation Commission of the Chamber of Deputies , expressed his concern about the decision by the United States government to block 13 Mexican air routes, which he considered directly affects Mexico’s connectivity, economy, and international reputation .

“This decision has not only diplomatic implications, but also significant economic and labor implications: it is estimated that more than 15,000 direct and indirect jobs linked to the aeronautical industry —pilots, flight attendants, technicians, airport personnel, travel agencies and suppliers linked to AIFA— could be affected by the reduction in operations,” he explained.

The measure, he noted, could jeopardize foreign and domestic investment , especially in maintenance, infrastructure and air services, severely impacting the sector’s competitiveness.

“This creates uncertainty for international investment and confidence in the Mexican aeronautical sector, affecting an industry that represents around 2% of the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employs more than 200,000 people throughout the country,” the federal legislator noted.

In that regard, he demanded an urgent and transparent explanation from the federal government regarding the circumstances that led to this sanction and the actions that will be taken to prevent further damage to Mexican commercial aviation.

It’s worth noting that the day before, the DOT announced the cancellation of 13 scheduled routes from Mexico to the United States operated by Mexican airlines from AIFA and AICM. According to the DOT, the measure was taken due to Mexico’s failure to comply with the Air Transport Agreement signed in 2015 .

In response, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum rejected the measure, calling it “unfounded” and suggesting it might be motivated by “political or business interests . “

In her morning press conference this Wednesday, Sheinbaum said that she instructed Juan Ramón de la Fuente, head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) , to request a meeting with the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, and the head of the DOT, Sean Duffy, to review the decision and demand formal explanations .

The Mexican president clarified that the decision to move cargo to AIFA was a sovereign one and related to civil protection, since AICM was at capacity , which put passengers at risk. “All the companies, including the American ones, are very happy with AIFA,” she emphasized.

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El cargo Canaero calls for dialogue regarding DOT measures; Transportation Commission demands explanation from the federal government apareció primero en T21.

In light of the recent approval of the reform to the Customs Law by the Chamber of Deputies , which was generally approved by 338 votes in favor and 129 against, Fernando Ramos Casas , a foreign trade consultant, pointed out that this initiative does not contribute to the modernization of the sector and is discretionary.

He recalled that during Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s presidency, customs administration was transferred to the control of the Armed Forces with the aim of combating smuggling. However, cases such as fiscal and hydrocarbon theft continue to occur , which he described as “alarming.”

In the news program “Nobody Is Asleep Anymore” on ADN Noticias, the expert considered that the new Customs Law puts customs agents in a difficult position, giving them more responsibilities and toughening penalties, placing them in the “dock of the accused,” which is “absurd.”

“The reform is absolutely restrictive and discretionary, and does nothing to modernize or facilitate the process,” he asserted.

He indicated that the resources collected each year by the federal treasury through customs represent almost 26 % of the country’s total tax revenue , “which is done through customs agents.”

Ramos Casas pointed out that importers, whom he considered Mexico’s main taxpayer, were not heard at the Chamber of Deputies’ forum on the Customs Law.

“But the most serious thing is that chambers like the Steel, Clothing, and Footwear Chambers applaud these types of reforms when their own companies are importers, and they’ll see how things will go next year,” he explained.

He argued that it is necessary to recognize that customs are a “fundamental lung of the country,” not only because of the revenue collection but also because of what it means for Mexico’s commercial development.

“Unfortunately, customs is always talked about from a negative perspective: drug trafficking, smuggling, piracy, arms trafficking, money laundering. But they never talk about the large investments that pass through customs, the furnaces, the factories, this whole network of equipment used by the automotive industry, mining, all industries. They don’t talk about that because it’s good news, and good news is never news, and that’s why the country collects 1.2 billion pesos a year,” he said.

There are 120,000 importers in the country , he said, and he considered that the current administration does not have a very clear idea of ​​what the world of customs means.

“When they looked at what tax collection entailed, they said, ‘This is where we belong, and they want to collect more,’ but what’s going to happen with this reform is that smuggling will increase, corruption will increase, and then public finances will go down, because we’re not questioning how the system is working,” he emphasized.

He pointed out that a reform of the Mexican customs system is required, rather than a reform of the relevant law.

It’s worth remembering that the reform to the Customs Law is expected to be discussed in the  Senate next week.

The initiative, promoted by the federal executive branch, seeks to modernize customs processes, strengthen tax collection , and provide greater control and transparency to cross-border operations. However, the private sector has warned that it could represent a “knockout” for foreign trade by  increasing the regulatory burden and toughening penalties for customs agents and companies.

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El cargo The Customs Law reform is restrictive and does not contribute to the modernization of the sector: Fernando Ramos apareció primero en T21.

Following the legislative review process, the Chamber of Deputies  approved the comprehensive reform of the Customs Law , considered one of the most profound transformations of the Mexican foreign trade regulatory framework in recent decades.

The initiative, promoted by the federal executive branch, seeks to modernize customs processes, strengthen tax collection, and provide greater control and transparency to cross-border operations .

The reform was approved in general by 338 votes in favor and 129 against , and is expected to be discussed in the Senate of the Republic next week.

As T21 previously reported, although the federal government presents it as a decisive step toward the digitalization and traceability of international trade, the private sector warns that it could represent a “knockout” for foreign trade, by increasing the regulatory burden and toughening sanctions for customs agents and companies .

Key adjustments before approval

During the legislative process, the Customs Law reform initiative underwent several adjustments compared to the original proposal presented by the federal executive branch. Although the central objective—to modernize customs operations and strengthen fiscal control—remained unchanged, legislators made some modifications to address some of the concerns of the private sector and the opposition.

One of the main changes was the extension of the validity of customs broker licenses , which was originally 10 years and was finally reduced to 20 years, with the possibility of an equal extension. Furthermore, the requirement for professional recertification was extended from every two to three years , in order to reduce the administrative burden on professionals in the sector.

Another relevant point was the introduction of more flexible guarantee mechanisms . The initial proposal stipulated that importers should exclusively use customs accounts to support their operations; however, the approved ruling also allows the use of letters of credit as an alternative, which provides greater financial leeway for companies.

Transitional articles were also incorporated to clarify the application of the new rules to existing patents and authorizations , ensuring that accredited customs agents maintain their rights under the new legal framework.

Furthermore, the reform definitively eliminated the liability exemptions that previously applied to customs agents , establishing full joint responsibility in import and export processes. This seeks to strengthen accountability, although the sector warns that the measure could generate legal uncertainty.

The federal government’s vision

Regarding the private sector’s concerns, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated at her morning press conference this Wednesday that the reform seeks to balance responsibility and competitiveness.

“For many years, customs agents were even inherited; there was no oversight. Now we’re holding them accountable if any irregularities occur, because if they write one thing on the incoming customs declaration and another, they must answer. Furthermore, public servants in customs are more accountable. Various mechanisms are implemented to prevent tax evasion and, at the same time, make the entire process of entering and leaving our country much more expeditious,” he explained.

Sheinbaum added that, during the reform discussion, meetings were held with the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit (SHCP) that allowed for modifications to some of the original proposals, seeking to guarantee legal certainty and efficiency in customs, especially in states with high commercial activity like Tamaulipas.

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El cargo Customs Law reform approved: modernization or a brake on foreign trade? apareció primero en T21.

José Manuel Urreta Ortega , national president of the  Mexican Chamber of the Maritime Transport Industry (Cameintram) , presented his 2025 Work Program to the Navy Commission of the Chamber of Deputies , which highlights issues related to the development of cabotage, encouraging shipbuilding in Mexico, and the decarbonization of the maritime-port sector.

The document presented by Urreta also highlights topics such as the participation of the maritime sector in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec Interoceanic Corridor project , as well as continuing to promote maritime transport through tax incentives.

At the meeting, held in San Lázaro, Cameintram and Humberto Coss and León Zúñiga , president of the Navy Commission, agreed to work as a team and strengthen constructive dialogue.

This is intended to promote legislative proposals to incentivize the Mexican merchant marine , as well as other relevant interests, to achieve consensus and agreements with the goal of bringing Mexico’s maritime sector to a successful conclusion.

During the meeting, Coss and León Zúñiga expressed their interest and commitment to maintaining open channels of communication with Cameintram and working together to address the challenges facing the country’s maritime sector.

He said that the agency’s work as an intermediary for the productive sector, shipowners, operators, and other stakeholders has been essential in providing visibility and monitoring of the needs, challenges, and opportunities of this industry. He also stated that maritime development requires a state policy.

He also recognized the new members of the National Board of Directors of Cameintram, especially José Manuel Urreta for his recent appointment as president of the organization.

For his part, Urreta Ortega welcomed this first meeting with legislators and emphasized that they have working committees for all activities, through which they will develop each of the projects they have proposed.

In turn, Representative Gabriela Benavides Cobos welcomed Cameintram’s vision to continue promoting cabotage in the country, and offered ongoing communication to address issues such as the decarbonization of the maritime-port sector.

It is worth remembering that last January, the Mexican government  published a decree in the Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF)  specifying that individuals and corporations have the possibility of immediately deducting, until September 30, 2030, investments made in new fixed assets, specifically machinery, equipment, and ships .

The decree also promotes investment in technological developments that lead to inventions, patents, and certifications, to integrate more Mexican companies, especially micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), into local and regional supply chains.

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El cargo Cameintram seeks to incentivize shipbuilding in Mexico apareció primero en T21.

The Chamber of Deputies ‘ Marine Commission approved the ruling that reforms provisions of the Ports Law, where the name of the Comprehensive Port Administration (API) is changed to the National Port System Administration (Asipona) .

The ruling comes three years and five months after the Navy decided to make this name change, once it took control of the administration of Mexico’s ports.

Furthermore, the reform mandates the establishment of state advisory committees that will be responsible for, among other things, promoting the port.

The bill was approved with 17 votes in favor, zero against, and zero abstentions . It was then referred to the Board of Directors for a vote.

Representative Gabriela Benavides, the sponsor of the reform, noted that the name change is important, providing legal certainty to investments in the port and to those involved in decision-making.

He added that the concept of port administrator expressly refers to the holder of an Asipona concession, which resolves a conflict that has existed since 2020 and a secretarial agreement establishing a new name instead of API as administrators of the National Port System.

For his part, Representative Humberto Coss y León Zúñiga, head of the Commission, explained that the proposed modification was welcomed, proposing that state governments should have an advisory commission , which will be responsible for promoting the port and issuing recommendations that affect urban activity and the ecological balance of the area.

The legislator maintained that the ruling will provide legal certainty to the people targeted by the Ports Law , such as logistics operators, freight forwarders, port service providers, and, in general, all persons directly or indirectly involved in activities with the port administration.

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El cargo Deputies approve the reform to the Ports Law on the API designation of Asipona apareció primero en T21.

In light of the imposition of 25% tariffs on imported vehicles manufactured in Mexico by the United States, public policies must be adjusted to consolidate the domestic market with more affordable options, said Guillermo Rosales Zárate , executive president of the Mexican Association of Automobile Dealers (AMDA) .

“This isn’t about abandoning the high-quality manufacturing and export profile, but rather about satisfying domestic demand for vehicles with more affordable options that meet the needs of a much broader population,” Rosales emphasized.

During the presentation of the book Automotive Industry in Mexico: History of the production, distribution and export of vehicles in the Chamber of Deputies , he specified that clear rules and incentives for local purchasing and production are required to boost domestic consumption of automobiles, because 80 % of the manufacturing in this industry is exported and of this percentage, 70% is sent to the United States.

In his speech, he supported the negotiations being conducted by President Claudia Sheinbaum ‘s government regarding the tariffs announced by Donald Trump , the president of the country’s northern neighbor.

The AMDA executive president invited legislators to continue discussing the tax revenue collected by the automotive industry, suggesting that adjusting it could help boost the domestic market.

“Since 2008, the deduction for new vehicles has been capped at 175,000 pesos over five fiscal years; with this year’s update, the amount should be 450,000 pesos,” he recalled.

Rosales believed it would be beneficial to implement this tax break in the Mexico Plan, which Sheinbaum is promoting as part of the country’s shift in export profile toward Made in Mexico.

In the sense of boosting the domestic market, he recalled the case of Brazil, a country that closed the first quarter of 2025 with a production of half a million units with a very similar local sale , while in the same period Mexico produced more than 973 thousand units , of which it exported 80% (776 thousand vehicles) and, the domestic market, even with good sales results in the reference period, was barely more than 370 thousand vehicles .

“What does this tell us? That Brazil, with a market and population almost double that of Mexico, has a production that barely reaches half of ours. Why? Because in Brazil, almost 80% of its production is for the domestic market, and the little it exports goes to the rest of Latin America. Very little of Brazilian production is sent to the most demanding markets, where Mexican vehicles have a reputation for the best quality in the world,” he emphasized.

Along these lines, he called on President Sheinbaum to end the regulation of automobile smuggling as another measure to improve the domestic market. He noted that through this measure, more than three million foreign units have been legalized so far.

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El cargo Mexico must strengthen its domestic automotive market in the face of US tariffs: AMDA apareció primero en T21.

The marking of federal trucking units was promoted by the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation (SICT) as a strategy to improve safety on Mexico’s roads. However, it continues to generate divided opinions among transporters and industry experts, who question its effectiveness and fear possible abuses by authorities.

Like a vehicle on a road without clear signage, the beacon advances without a defined route . During an event at the Estafeta logistics center , the executive director of supervision of the Federal Motor Transport Directorate (DGAF), Paulino Herrera , reiterated that the beacons will not be mandatory or punishable .

He explained that the initiative arose from a request from the National Guard , with the goal of facilitating the identification of cargo and passenger vehicles in the event of criminal incidents.

“With the wide variety of trailer types available in Mexico to meet the needs of freight transport, it was impossible for us to include all the examples we had seen, so in the February 7 publication, we included an email address (dudasbalizadodgaf@sict.gob.mx) where carriers could receive questions,” Herrera explained.

Accepted by some, hated by others

Several carriers have told T21 that beaconing does not address the main security challenges in the sector .

The doubts arise not only over the details of this provision’s implementation, but also over its costs, effectiveness, and the complications it could cause to road transporters, such as extortion.

According to data from the National Association of Vehicle Tracking and Protection Companies (ANERPV) , 68% of vehicle thefts occur in 12 regions, with Puebla and the State of Mexico being the most affected. Furthermore, 76% of thefts target heavy vehicles, which represents a direct blow to logistics and commerce.

General Cruz Isaac Muñoz Navarro, director of highway and facility security for the National Guard (GN) , commented during a security forum at the Chamber of Deputies that cargo transport robberies totaled 7,968 in 2024. However, at the event, transporters believe that the problem remains serious and that extortion by authorities also represents a threat.

Marking does not end with corrupt authority

Carlos García Álvarez, vice president of the Mexican Alliance of Transportation Organizations (AMOTAC) , reported that in many cases, state and municipal police detain transporters and allegedly ” plant drugs” on them.

“They arrest us and plant the famous cocaine, crystal meth, all those drugs on us, and then they plant it, and it’s cost us money. Our operators need a guarantee to make their work easier,” García Álvarez stated at the same event in the Chamber of Deputies.

Faced with these concerns, transporters and industry experts have questioned the lack of a clear surveillance plan to ensure that beaconing doesn’t become another tool for extortion.

Some transport configurations, such as carriers, tanks, and container chassis, have limited areas for marking , leaving open the possibility of arbitrary interpretation by authorities, and perhaps an email will not resolve the issues at the time of the incident.

Costs and feasibility of the measure

Although the measure is not mandatory, many companies will have to bear the cost of implementing it in their fleets. The SICT has estimated an investment of 250 pesos per unit . However, transporters have commented that the price is “much” higher.

The SICT goal is to mark 1.8 million units , including motor vehicles and trailers.

Jorge Sánchez Núñez , executive director of regulations and permits for federal trucking, explained that “the markings will be applied primarily to the sides, awnings, and rear of the units , prioritizing visibility from the air with the use of video surveillance, drones, and helicopters . ”

While beaconing seeks to improve the identification and tracking of freight and passenger vehicles, transporters and industry experts believe it fails to address the underlying problem : organized crime and corruption on the roads.

The sector continues to demand more effective and technological measures to combat theft and impunity on the roads. Meanwhile, beaconing continues to advance with uncertainty, like a vehicle traveling aimlessly in the midst of a storm of uncertainty.

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El cargo Marking, a regulation in progress and without a clear direction apareció primero en T21.

Lawmakers, representatives of the federal government , transporters, business chambers and associations entered the ring at the Chamber of Deputies during the forum ” Insecurity on Mexico’s Highways ,” organized by the   Communications and Transportation Commission , and launched direct attacks against the lack of security on the national road network.

Rafael Ortiz Pacheco, president of the Mexican Alliance of Transportation Organizations (AMOTAC) , launched his first “defensive blow,” harshly criticizing the authorities for their lack of concrete action. He noted that, although various problems in the sector have been discussed, the “truly urgent” issues have not been addressed with real solutions.

“Everyone comes to light their own fires. But what about the National Guard? Until when will they enforce the regulations, Rule 012, which address overloading and speeding of vehicles?” Ortiz Pacheco questioned.

The transportation leader reported that cargo theft continues to occur brazenly in areas such as La Esperanza, Puebla, and that in some cases members of the National Guard have even participated.

“The Northern Arch is large, but there are critical areas, such as La Esperanza in Puebla, where trucks are being blatantly stolen. This is even with the support of some members of the National Guard. They’ve been identified, videos have been sent, and there have been no results,” Ortiz Pacheco stated.

In a calmer tone, Representative Víctor Manuel Pérez Díaz (PAN), chairman of the Communications and Transportation Committee, emphasized that this is a problem that has been addressed without political overtones , but rather with a focus on ensuring the peace of mind of citizens and the stability of commerce.

He stated that for several years, initiatives have been promoted , including amendments to Article 19 of the Constitution regarding freight transportation, and tougher measures have been taken regarding highway toll booths, which are masked by freedom of expression, as well as the blocking of railways, among others.

Round 2, Data Insecurity! 

Among the main challenges discussed at the forum, cargo theft and corruption at security checkpoints were the most highlighted points.

According to data presented by Luis Villatoro Martínez , president of the National Association of Vehicle Tracking and Protection Companies (ANERPV) , 68% of cargo thefts occur in 12 regions , with Puebla and the State of Mexico as the most affected states.

Furthermore, 76% of these crimes target heavy vehicles , which seriously affects logistics and trade in the country.

For his part, General Cruz Isaac Muñoz Navarro , Director of Highway and Facility Security of the National Guard (GN) , reported that, although robberies have decreased from 13,068 in 2018 to 7,968 in 2024 , there is still much work to be done. He invited citizens to report acts of corruption within the security force, assuring that the GN seeks to eradicate impunity among its members .

In this regard, Carlos García Álvarez, vice president of AMOTAC, mentioned that one of the most serious problems they face is that state and municipal police detain transporters and plant drugs on them.

“On highways or federal highways, state or municipal police come and arrest us, planting the famous cocaine, crystal meth, and all those drugs on us, and then they plant it, and it’s cost us money. So, I think there are many issues regarding security, and our operators also need a guarantee to make their work easier,” García explained.

Furthermore, Representative Emilio Manzanilla Téllez (PT) pointed out that corruption is the central problem of road safety . He proposed strengthening police oversight mechanisms at the municipal, state, and federal levels to prevent abuses against transporters.

More people are coming into the ring! 

The transportation and business sectors agreed on the need to establish clear legal reforms and public policies to guarantee the safety and competitiveness of transportation in Mexico.

Elim Luviano Heredia , president of the Transportation Commission of the Confederation of Industrial Chambers (Concamin) , stressed the urgent need to provide certainty to investment in the sector , promote the right to mobility , and facilitate the renewal of the vehicle fleet .

He emphasized that property and legal insecurity not only affects transporters but also impacts the cost of products, increasing the cost of the national economy.

In the same corner of the ring, Leonardo Gómez Vargas , executive president of the National Association of Private Transportation (ANTP) , emphasized that road insecurity increases logistics costs , affecting investment and consumer well-being. He proposed strengthening strategies for crime prevention and rebuilding the social fabric .

For his part, Marco Antonio Frías Galván , director of the Mexican Association of Road Infrastructure Concessionaires , proposed that the private sector should assume greater responsibility for road safety , collaborating with the three levels of government to improve coordination and the use of technology.

From the perspective of vehicle manufacturers, Miguel Ogazón del Abrego, of the National Association of Bus, Truck and Tractor-Trailer Manufacturers (ANPACT) , pointed out the need to implement a vehicle renewal program to improve road safety and facilitate the tracking of vehicles in case of theft.

Knockout! Request for concrete actions

The forum made it clear that road safety is a complex problem that requires structural solutions. It was agreed that the event’s conclusions will be compiled in a document that the Communications and Transportation Commission will send to the relevant authorities, so that concrete measures can be taken.

Key points to be discussed for future reforms include:

• Strengthen coordination between authorities and carriers to improve crime prevention.
• Promote the use of technology such as satellite tracking and alert systems to reduce theft.
• Review the Mobility Law and other regulations that affect transportation operations.
• Supervise security forces to prevent abuse and extortion at roadblocks.
• Facilitate vehicle fleet renewal to improve the safety and performance of freight transport.

Representative Francisco Javier Borrego Adame (Morena) emphasized the need for the Attorney General’s Office (FGR) to intervene in roadblocks where allegations of corruption and extortion of transporters have been reported.

Those present at the forum commented that this is only the first step toward defining a comprehensive strategy to improve road safety. They emphasized that a document containing the conclusions and proposals presented will be developed, which will be sent to the authorities who were not present so that the necessary measures can be taken.

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El cargo In the Chamber of Deputies, transporters demand a “knockout” of highway crime. apareció primero en T21.

Due to the importance of the port of Lázaro Cárdenas in the movement of goods and the increase in operational movement expected in 2025 due to the incorporation of three more shipping line services, predicting at least 25% more cargo increase, Estefani Leal , Legal Manager of the Mexican Association of Shipping Agents (Amanac) , considered it essential that the customs of this port be modified from a type 2 to a type 1.

At the National Consultation Forum for Mexican Customs and Ports , held in the Chamber of Deputies , Leal pointed out that this would mean that this strategic point could be provided with personnel, non-intrusive inspection equipment, extended hours and everything necessary for it to operate efficiently in order to offer better service to foreign trade users.

According to the National Customs Agency of Mexico (ANAM) , there are two types of customs: type 1, which are those with the largest operations, as well as schedules, staff allocation and more resources in general.

Type 2, according to ANAM, refers to a customs office whose operations are normal , without high demand and with fewer needs than a type 1. Currently, Lázaro Cárdenas is classified as type 2, however, due to the type of operation and volume it handles, it should be type 1.

According to Leal, Lázaro Cárdenas is the second largest maritime port for vehicle mobilization nationwide . In 2024 alone, it reported a movement of more than 670 thousand units, surpassed only by Veracruz.

“It was also ranked as the eighth port in Latin America in container movement, reporting the movement of more than nine million TEU (20-foot containers) last year, second only to Manzanillo,” he explained.

According to information from the National Port System Administration (Asipona) Lázaro Cárdenas , this port closed 2024 with a total figure of 31 million 295 thousand 690 tons of cargo operated , which meant an increase of 6% compared to the 29 million 592 thousand 908 tons reached in the same period of 2023.

Representatives from the customs and transportation sectors also participated in the forum, where they presented the needs and areas of opportunity for this industry, in relation to the initiative to reform the Customs Law , proposed by Congresswoman Rosalinda Savala , which seeks to modernize customs processes and  unify and extend operating hours at the 50 customs offices in Mexico.

The proposal also states that customs services will be implemented during the following hours: Monday to Sunday from 00:00 to 24:00, Monday to Saturday from 9:00 to 21:00, and Sundays from 9:00 to 15:00.

In this regard, Yax Tzel Nolasco Gómez , president of the Manzanillo Cargo Transport Union (UTCM) , considered it important to begin modifying both annex four of the rules where schedules are discussed, as well as different articles of the Customs Law , to streamline and seek efficiency in seaports, as well as their cargo.

According to Asipona Lázaro Cárdenas, in 2024, deep-sea traffic was the most relevant, representing 91% of the total cargo volume. Within this, imports accounted for 65% , standing out as the main segment, while exports accounted for 26% of global movement.

During his participation, Julio César Cortés , president of the Business Coordinating Council (CCE) Lázaro Cárdenas Region , highlighted the importance of modifying customs as imperative , and emphasized that port schedules must also be reconsidered, so that they are more dynamic in their operations, which would impact the well-being of workers and their families.

“Entry and exit times help to increase efficiency, and this initiative would also contribute to the development of the community where the ports are located,” he said.

Another of the problems addressed at the event was the traffic congestion at the port of Lázaro Cárdenas. This was commented by Sergio Orozco Caballero , from Servicios al Comercio y Transportes Garusi , who said that this situation has generated high levels of pollution and insecurity.

In an interview with T21 , he indicated that this situation is due to the schedules managed by the Lázaro Cárdenas customs office, which do not allow the dispatch of merchandise to be cut off at one in the afternoon because after that there are no appointments to take it out or collect it.

“This is causing problems for all types of transport, which are parked all over the main avenue and in other parts of the city and along the highway, which has caused many accidents,” he stressed.

Also present at the event were Marcelo Padilla Gómez Tagle , president of the Executive Committee of the Association of Customs Agents of Lázaro Cárdenas (AAALAC) ; Saúl Alejandro Cuevas , director of SOMI Transportes; Jorge Medina , general director of Transpoint Intermoda , among others.

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El cargo They ask that the customs office at the port of Lázaro Cárdenas be type 1 to provide it with more resources and personnel apareció primero en T21.