Background and Key Players
In the context of significant global trade changes and the ongoing need to combat corruption, Mexico’s Secretaría de Hacienda y Crédito Público (SHCP) and customs agents are working together to reform the Mexican Customs Law.
The Confederación de Asociaciones de Agentes Aduanales de la República Mexicana (CAAAREM) has proposed a reform to the Ley Aduanera, which was presented to the SHCP’s Unidad de Legislación Tributaria on July 1. This reform aims to strengthen the fight against smuggling by expanding customs agents’ accountability and providing full operational capacity to the customs agency.
Current Challenges and Proposed Changes
Currently, if a customs agent passes away, their license becomes invalid, causing business disruptions for clients, employees, and business partners. The proposed reform seeks to shift the shared responsibility of customs agents in validating commercial operations to direct accountability.
Rafael Marín Mollinedo, former head of Mexico’s National Customs Agency (ANAM), emphasized the crucial role of customs agents as the first line of defense against malpractices like undervaluation and smuggling.
As of now, there are 804 active customs agents in Mexico, with 66 undergoing cancellation through legal processes. President Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration has suspended the licenses of 47 customs agents due to errors or alleged illegal practices.
Historical Context and Optimism for Reform
In 2013, the customs agent substitute figure was removed from the Ley Aduanera to prevent agents from inheriting their licenses.
Alejandro Malagón, president of the Confederación de Cámaras Industriales (Concamin), expressed optimism about the proposed reform during the National Customs Agents Congress organized by CAAAREM. He highlighted that a robust customs system is essential for Mexico’s aspirations as an export power with secure borders.
Customs Agents’ Role and Future Outlook
Customs agents are private sector members who collaborate with the ANAM to control the entry and exit of goods, ensure proper payment of taxes and compensatory quotas, and maintain legal and economic stability.
Miguel Cos Nesbitt, President of CAAAREM, emphasized the importance of efficient and cooperative customs agents in driving economic development, ensuring legal security, and promoting societal well-being.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main goal of Mexico’s customs reform? The primary objective is to strengthen the fight against smuggling and corruption by expanding customs agents’ accountability and providing full operational capacity to the customs agency.
- What challenges does the current system face? The existing system faces issues such as business disruptions upon a customs agent’s death and the shared responsibility model that may not ensure full accountability.
- What role do customs agents play in Mexico’s economy? Customs agents are private sector members who collaborate with the ANAM to control goods movement, ensure proper tax payments, and maintain legal and economic stability.
- Why is the customs reform significant for Mexico’s export ambitions? A robust customs system is crucial for securing borders and supporting Mexico’s goals as an export power.
