An Overview of Mexican Foreign Trade
Analysis of the First Half of 2025
Trade Balance Result
Surplus of $1,432.6 million
A notable turnaround from the previous year, driven by the strength of the manufacturing sector and controlled imports.
1st Half 2024
Deficit of $10,916 million
1st Half 2025
Surplus of $1,432.6 million
Total Exports
$312,728.1 million
Growth of +4.4%
Non-Oil
+5.9%
Driven by manufacturing (+6.2%)
Oil
-24.8%
Affected by energy markets
Total Imports
$311,295.5 million
Moderate increase of +0.2%
Controlled growth in foreign purchases was key to consolidating the trade surplus.
Breakdown of Imports: What Does Mexico Buy?
The import structure reflects the country's manufacturing and consumption focus.
Intermediate Goods (77%)
$239,602.7 million
Non-Oil ($223,475.3 million):
Auto parts, chips, steel, plastics.
Oil ($16,127.4 million):
Fuels for industrial processes.
Consumer Goods (14%)
$44,332.9 million
Non-Oil ($37,083.2 million):
Electronics, cars, clothing, pharmaceuticals.
Oil ($7,249.7 million):
Gasoline, butane and propane gas.
Capital Goods (9%)
$27,359.9 million
Machinery, equipment, and tools for industrial and agricultural production.
Customs Revenue Collection
Historic Figure (1st Half)
$711,903 MXN million
Real growth of +23% vs 2024
Clearance Times
Green Light (Agile Clearance)
The process can take just a few hours.
Red Light (Inspection)
Adds from hours to days to the total time.
Modernization vs. Challenges
Advances:
The National Customs Agency (ANAM) has implemented digitalization and systems like the Crossing Notice (AVC) to streamline processes and reduce the need for physical paperwork. This has contributed to the efficiency seen in record revenue collection.
Challenges:
Despite modernization, the enormous volume of trade continues to generate recognized delays in different parts of the country.
Type of Customs and Volume
Border Customs (e.g., Nuevo Laredo)
They have a very high volume of land freight. Although they are very efficient, bottlenecks can occur during peak hours or high seasons, increasing waiting times.
Maritime Customs (e.g., Manzanillo)
The process involves unloading containers, moving them, and their subsequent clearance. It is reported that up to 50% of the time a cargo transport loses in a port can be due to procedures and waits at customs.
Strategic Partner of the U.S.
16.9%
Mexico's historic share of total U.S. imports during June 2025.