ELTOSAI Logistics Guide
Restricted and Prohibited Goods for Mexico Imports
Updated October 2026 · By the ELTOSAI brokerage team
Not everything can enter Mexico, and many things can only enter with the right permit in hand. This guide maps the restricted and prohibited categories so you can check your product before you ship, not when it is sitting in a Manzanillo yard.
Prohibited goods
Mexico prohibits the import of certain goods outright, including narcotics and psychotropic substances, certain weapons and explosives, counterfeit goods, and products infringing intellectual property. Attempting to import prohibited goods results in seizure and criminal liability. When in doubt, ask before shipping.
Restricted goods: permit required
A much larger category requires permits, certifications or sectorial registration before import:
- Regulated electronics and electrical products: NOM certification mandatory
- Textiles, footwear, steel and other sensitive categories: Padron Sectorial registration
- Chemicals and hazardous materials: permits plus compliant packaging and labeling
- Food, cosmetics and health products: COFEPRIS-related requirements
- Used machinery and vehicles: additional requirements and inspections
- Wood packaging: ISPM-15 heat treatment and marking, no exceptions
How to check your product
Classification drives everything: your fracción arancelaria determines which permits, NOMs and sectorial registries apply. Send us your product's technical description and we will confirm the requirements with our brokerage team before you commit to the shipment. This check is free and takes the guesswork out of compliance.
Frequently asked questions
What goods are prohibited from entering Mexico?
Narcotics, certain weapons and explosives, counterfeit goods and IP-infringing products, among others. Prohibited imports lead to seizure and criminal liability.
Do electronics need special permits for Mexico?
Most regulated electronics need NOM certification before import. NOM compliance cannot be obtained after arrival, so certify first.
Can I import used machinery into Mexico?
Yes, with additional requirements and inspections. Confirm admissibility and valuation rules with your broker before shipping.
Mexico customs guides
Logistics glossary
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