Mexico’s Customs Revenue Soars 23% as Reform Momentum Builds

Mexico’s customs revenue surged 23% in real terms in 1H25, reaching an all-time high, according to the National Customs Agency of Mexico (ANAM). From January to June, the country’s 50 customs offices collected MX$711.8 billion (US$38.35 billion), accounting for 25% of all federal tax income.

The land customs office of Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, led the nation with MX$109.8 billion (US$5.91 billion) in revenue during the period. The Manzanillo maritime customs office in Colima followed closely with MX$93.4 billion (US$5.03 billion), while Veracruz ranked third at MX$71.8 billion (US$3.87 billion).

Reform Momentum Grows 

Calls for customs reform have been building since May, when lawmakers, customs authorities, and industry leaders voiced strong support for modernizing operations, strengthening oversight, and addressing long-standing issues such as tax evasion and corruption. On July 1, customs brokers presented a proposal to reform the Customs Law to the Tax Legislation Unit of the Ministry of Finance. The initiative is now under review. 

“Customs are not only vital, they are strategic. Their transparency and rigor in enforcement have led to historic increases in revenue, which translate into improved public services,” says Juan Carlos Loera, President, Commission on Northern Border Affairs. He stresses customs’ critical role as a frontline defense against organized crime, smuggling, and illicit trade, reports MBN.

A central theme in recent discussions has been the need to adapt the law to new global trade conditions, including commitments under the USMCA and the rapid growth of e-commerce. ANAM has quadrupled foreign trade revenue and canceled irregular contracts worth over MX$10 billion (US$509.85 million). “It is time the law keeps pace with the agency’s accomplishments,” says Senator Olga Sosa. 

Back in April, President Claudia Sheinbaum underscored the importance of shared accountability across the customs chain, likening customs agents to notaries who verify the legality of imports and exports. She emphasized the need to close loopholes that have allowed some importers to misuse programs like IMMEX to avoid paying VAT and excise taxes.