Mexico Advances Reforms on Tax, Security, Digitization

This week, Mexico’s Congress advanced several high-impact reforms that could reshape the country’s digital, fiscal, and security landscape. Lawmakers approved new tax measures under the IEPS reform, including levies on violent video games and light beverages, as well as a nationwide initiative to combat extortion. 

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New Tax Reform Raises Privacy Concerns for Online Users

Starting April 2026, Mexico’s tax authority (SAT) will gain access to users’ online activity across streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime, HBO, and Disney Plus, e-commerce sites like Amazon and Mercado Libre, dating apps including Bumble and Tinder, and mobility services such as Uber and Didi. This initiative, referred to as digital Big Brother, will cover streaming consumption, intermediary platforms, online clubs, dating sites, distance learning, and online assessments.

Sheinbaum Proposes National Law to Combat Extortion in Mexico

President Claudia Sheinbaum has submitted a bill to the Chamber of Deputies proposing a General Law to combat extortion nationwide. The initiative aims to standardize how extortion is defined and punished across all states, allow authorities to prosecute it automatically, and enable victims to report crimes anonymously.

Mexico Approves IEPS Reform: New Taxes on Soda, Violent Games

The Chamber of Deputies approved amendments to the Special Tax on Production and Services Law (IEPS), introducing new levies on violent video games and a specific tax on light and zero beverages. Following a debate, lawmakers passed the reform with 337 votes in favor, 126 against, and none abstaining. The proposal will now move to the Senate for review.

Mexico Seeks Cohesive National Position Ahead of USMCA Review

Minister of Economy Marcelo Ebrard highlighted that the Ministry is conducting consultations with leading sectors and states to form Mexico’s most unified position for the upcoming USMCA review. Ebrard highlighted meetings with the Business Coordinating Council and labor unions, co-organized with the Ministry of Labor, to incorporate multiple perspectives and identify shared priorities. Following President Claudia Sheinbaum’s guidance, Mexico aims to enter the 2026 USMCA review with a nationwide, widely supported stance.

International Trade Expected to Grow 2.5%: DHL

Despite higher US tariffs and geopolitical uncertainty, international trade is proving more resilient than expected, reported DHL Global Connectedness Tracker, developed in partnership with NYU Stern School of Business. The report estimates that world trade volumes are expected to grow 2.5% annually through 2029, matching the pace of the previous decade and maintaining record levels of globalization.