Remittances / DEA Claims ‘Unprecedented Cooperation’

Decline in Remittances. President Claudia Sheinbaum clarified that, on an annual basis, remittances have fallen by 5%, not the 16% recorded in the most recent month. She explained that current remittance levels are similar to those of 2022, a result of measures imposed by the United States affecting Mexican migrants. She also noted that the number of deported Mexicans is not as high compared to previous periods.

DEA. Following remarks by DEA Director Terry Cole, who stated that Mexico has shown an “unprecedented willingness” to cooperate with the United States, President Claudia Sheinbaum said she would not “enter into a debate” with the agency and denied the assertion. Sheinbaum explained that DEA agents and those from other US agencies operating in Mexico must request authorization and comply with the National Security Law.

“They request permission through the Foreign Affairs Ministry, they are granted that authorization, and they must adhere to the National Security Law. In some cases, information is shared through the National Intelligence and Investigation System, always within the framework of our sovereignty,” she emphasized.

Reform Against Tax Evasion Schemes. Acknowledging that tax evasion remains a problem, President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that her administration will introduce reforms to continue tackling fraudulent invoicing practices. “This harmful practice is still used to avoid paying taxes,” she said, noting that the planned reform is expected to strengthen tax collection.

Sheinbaum Seeks Nationwide Implementation of the General Law Against Extortion. Sheinbaum reaffirmed her commitment to combating extortion, stating that her administration will work to ensure the General Law Against Extortion is applied across the country. She emphasized that the goal is for extortion to be prosecuted ex officio nationwide, without requiring a formal complaint.

“A constitutional change is coming during this period to establish a General Law Against Extortion so that all states adopt it, allowing the crime to be pursued ex officio rather than relying on victims to file complaints, since they often fear coming forward,” Sheinbaum explained.