For manufacturers in Mexico sourcing components, raw materials, or machinery from China, the IMMEX program can help lower import costs.
The program lets eligible companies temporarily import goods for export-oriented production under special customs rules. The actual benefits depend on the type of goods, their intended use, and the company’s compliance with IMMEX requirements.
What Is IMMEX in Mexico?
IMMEX stands for Industria Manufacturera, Maquiladora y de Servicios de Exportación. It is a Mexican government program that allows authorized businesses to temporarily import qualifying goods for manufacturing, assembly, repair, or approved export services.
For example, a Mexican electronics manufacturer may import components from China, assemble finished products, and export them without treating the components as ordinary permanent imports, provided the relevant IMMEX requirements are met.
IMMEX vs. maquiladora: The terms are related but not interchangeable. A maquiladora refers to a manufacturing operation, while IMMEX is the regulatory program governing eligible manufacturing and export-service activities.
What Are the Tax Benefits of IMMEX?
IMMEX can reduce the upfront tax burden on goods imported for export production, although the treatment varies by product and customs regime.
The main advantages include:
- Import duties: Qualifying goods may receive preferential temporary import treatment, subject to applicable duties, exceptions, and trade rules.
- VAT (IVA): Companies that qualify for Mexico’s separate IVA/IEPS certificationmay claim the applicable tax credit on eligible temporary imports.
- Temporary imports: Approved materials and equipment can enter Mexico for specified production activities without being immediately treated as permanent imports.
IMMEX approval alone does not make every shipment duty-free or VAT-free. The importer must confirm the applicable treatment before the goods enter Mexico.
Who Qualifies for the IMMEX Program?
Companies in Mexico may qualify for IMMEX if they engage in manufacturing or eligible export-related services.
Applicants generally need to demonstrate:
- Business operations: Manufacturing or export-service activities that meet IMMEX requirements.
- Facilities and documentation: Suitable premises and records supporting their operations.
- Export commitments: Annual exports exceeding US$500,000 or accounting for at least 10% of total annual sales.
Mexico’s Ministry of Economy reviews IMMEX applications and grants authorization to qualifying companies. Businesses must obtain approval before importing goods under the program.
IMMEX Compliance: What Importers Must Track
IMMEX compliance doesn’t end with customs clearance. Importers must track temporarily imported goods until they export, transfer, or otherwise dispose of them through an authorized customs procedure.
Key requirements include:
- Inventory control: Maintain automated inventory records under Annex 24.
- Customs documentation: Keep import declarations, product descriptions, quantities, and tariff classifications consistent.
- Import deadlines: Monitor how long goods remain in Mexico. Many raw materials and components have an 18-month limit, although exceptions apply.
- Export records: Document how and when goods leave Mexico or move under another authorized customs procedure.
Poor inventory records or missed deadlines can result in additional duties, taxes, and penalties.
Shipping Goods from China Under IMMEX
Before shipping, the Mexican importer should check with its customs broker whether the goods qualify for temporary import under its IMMEX authorization.
For shipments involving multiple Chinese suppliers, commercial invoices, packing lists, product descriptions, and quantities must match the details required for Mexican customs clearance and inventory tracking.
Importers can use either air or ocean freight, depending on cargo requirements and delivery schedules. Transport mode does not affect IMMEX eligibility, but the importer and customs broker should agree on the import instructions before departure.
With these details in place, ASLG can arrange shipping from China to Mexico for manufacturing materials, components, and equipment.
