Full definition
Temporary import (importación temporal) is a customs regime in Mexico allowing goods to enter the country without the payment of import duties (IGI) and VAT (IVA). This regime is particularly beneficial for businesses engaged in manufacturing and exporting activities under the IMMEX program. The goods must either be returned to their country of origin, exported as finished products, or transferred to another authorized program within a specified timeframe. The maximum duration for temporary imports varies: raw materials and components for manufacturing can remain for up to 18 months, tools and equipment for 6 months, and machinery for the duration of the manufacturing process. This flexibility aids in inventory management and cost control for manufacturing operations.
Companies utilizing the temporary import regime must maintain accurate records in their customs inventory system (Annex 24) to comply with regulations. This includes tracking the status of goods, ensuring they are reconciled with export declarations (pedimentos de exportación). Non-compliance with the return/export stipulations can result in significant financial penalties, including the retroactive payment of all duties and taxes that would have been due if the goods were imported definitively, as well as additional fines. Therefore, meticulous record-keeping and adherence to timelines are crucial for businesses engaged in this customs regime.
There are several types of temporary imports: those made under the IMMEX program for manufacturing export goods, which represent the majority of transactions; those authorized for specific activities such as exhibitions and trade shows; and those for repair and return, where equipment is sent to Mexico for service and then re-exported. Familiarity with the nuances of these categories and understanding how they impact pricing, documentation, and compliance is essential for industrial rubber suppliers and other businesses operating within the Mexican market. Compliance with the Mexican Foreign Trade Law (Ley de Comercio Exterior) and General Foreign Trade Rules (Reglas Generales de Comercio Exterior) is mandatory to ensure smooth operation and avoid legal challenges.