Understanding the Reform
A new decree entered into force on December 13, 2025, in Mexico, strengthening digital consumers’ rights by mandating companies to allow immediate cancellation of recurring subscription charges without unnecessary barriers or penalties. The reform was published in the Diario Oficial de la Federación (DOF), adding fractions VIII and IX to Article 76 Bis of the Federal Consumer Protection Law (LFPC).
What Changes with the Reform?
- Providers must clearly, prominently, and accessibly inform consumers if a service involves recurring automatic charges, detailing its frequency, amount, and due date.
- Automatic charges require explicit and informed consumer consent.
- In cases of automatic renewal, companies must notify users at least five natural days in advance, allowing them to cancel the service without penalty before a new charge.
- The core change is the addition of fraction IX, which obligates providers to implement mechanisms for immediate cancellation of any service, subscription, or membership without violating the contract but avoiding confusing processes, forced calls, or unnecessary steps.
Cancellation as Easy as Subscription
This measure aims to eliminate practices that made it difficult to cancel digital services, such as hidden menus, prolonged wait times, or requiring cancellations through channels other than subscription.
Senator Ricardo Monreal highlighted that the reform eliminates unannounced automatic charges and ensures subscriptions can be canceled through the same channel they were contracted, bolstering consumer defense in the digital environment.
When Does It Apply?
The transitional article of the decree states it enters into force the day after publication, making its provisions immediately applicable to service providers operating in Mexico.
Promulgated by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, this reform is part of an agenda aimed at reinforcing consumer rights and regulating the digital market more clearly, increasingly present in daily life.
What Users Should Know
- Consumers now have the right to clearly understand if a service has recurring charges.
- Receive advance notices before automatic renewals.
- Immediately cancel a subscription or membership without unnecessary obstacles.
- Avoid unauthorized or consent-less charges.
- The Federal Consumer Prosecutor’s Office (Profeco) will oversee compliance with these provisions and address potential complaints of non-compliance.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main change brought by this reform? The decree mandates companies to allow immediate cancellation of recurring subscription charges without unnecessary barriers or penalties.
- When does this reform take effect? The reform entered into force on December 14, 2025, following its publication in the DOF.
- Who is responsible for enforcing these new rules? The Federal Consumer Prosecutor’s Office (Profeco) will oversee compliance and address potential complaints.
- What rights do consumers gain under this reform? Consumers now have the right to clear information about recurring charges, advance notices for automatic renewals, easy cancellation without obstacles, and protection from unauthorized charges.
