**Economy Secretariat Prepares Decree for Importing Used Vehicles to the Border Zone**
The Economy Secretariat is finalizing a new decree that will enable the permanent importation of used vehicles into Mexico’s northern border zone with a preferential tariff. This regulation is expected to be valid for one year following its publication in the Official Gazette.
The absence of this decree since September 30, 2024, has resulted in substantial economic losses for used car sellers, drivers, and customs agents, who have been advocating for its extension. During President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo’s recent visit to Baja California, the issue was raised again, as over 2,000 vehicles remain parked in the United States awaiting importation, particularly in Tijuana.
According to the draft document submitted to the National Commission for Regulatory Improvement (Conamer), a 1% tariff will apply to used cars that are 5 to 9 years old at the time of importation. Vehicles aged 10 years at the time of importation will incur a 10% tariff. Residents of Baja California, Baja California Sur, and the border area from Sonora to Tamaulipas (up to 20 kilometers inland) can benefit from these preferential rates.
For this region, the requirement for a certificate of origin is waived for 24 specific tariff lines, unlike the definitive importation process for the rest of the country, where such documentation is mandatory. If this certificate or a document from the manufacturer cannot be provided, the importer must submit a signed declaration under oath from the vehicle’s manufacturer attesting that the vehicle was produced in North America.
Used cars imported permanently under this decree intended for the northern border strip — including parts of Baja California, Baja California Sur, and sections of Sonora, as well as the municipalities of Cananea and Caborca in Sonora — may be reallocated to other parts of the country as per guidelines set by the Tax Administration Service (SAT).
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**Secondary Article: Challenges Surrounding Vehicle Importation**
In recent years, the importation of used vehicles into Mexico’s border zones has faced numerous challenges. The fluctuating regulations and tariffs have caused significant confusion for consumers and importers alike. As of 2024, the Mexican government has been under pressure from local businesses and international suppliers to clarify and simplify the import process.
The automotive industry along the U.S.-Mexico border has expressed concerns about the impact of these regulations on the market’s competitiveness and economic health. Many importers hope for a streamlined process that will reduce costly hold-ups and paperwork.
While the proposed decree has offered some hope with preferential tariffs, stakeholders continue to urge for long-term solutions and permanent regulatory clarity to foster a stable business environment. As Mexico strives to balance economic growth with regulatory oversight, the future of vehicle importation remains a topic of crucial interest for both policymakers and business operators.