A summary of the changes affecting importers and exporters between Mexico and the United States in October 2026, and what to review in your operation.
1. New CBP user fees (from October 1, 2026)
With fiscal year 2027, U.S. Customs adjusted its user fees. The Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) stays at 0.3464% of value, but the minimum rises to US$34.58 and the maximum to US$670.86 per formal entry. USMCA-originating goods remain exempt from MPF. Run your numbers with our calculator.
2. The 10% Section 301 tariff and USMCA origin
Since July 24, 2026 the U.S. applies an additional 10% tariff (Section 301) to products from 60 economies. Products that prove USMCA origin are exempt. If your goods qualify, make sure you have the certification of origin and supporting records. See USMCA rules of origin.
3. Section 232: steel, aluminum and copper
Section 232 tariffs (up to 50%) on steel, aluminum and copper apply even when the goods qualify as USMCA-originating.
4. USMCA remains in force
After the July 2026 joint review, the agreement remains in force until 2036, with annual reviews. Duty benefits for originating goods continue.
Update, October 5, 2026: at the July review the United States did not confirm a new 16-year term, so the three countries will hold a joint review every year. The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has opened the public consultation for the 2027 review: written comments and requests to appear at the hearing are due January 12, 2027. No duty rate or requirement changes today; if your business relies on USMCA origin, keep your origin records in order and follow the process. Source: Federal Register document 2026-20341.
5. Reminder: Mexico duties on non-FTA countries
Since January 1, 2026, Mexico applies duties of 5% to 50% on 1,463 tariff lines to products from countries without a trade agreement, including China. See importing from China into Mexico.
What to review this month
- Confirm the classification and origin of your main products.
- Check that your USMCA certification is current and complete.
- Update your U.S. landed costs with the new MPF.
- Review Mexico’s new electronic value declaration (September alert).
Want us to review the impact on your operation? Request a quote or call +1 (956) 717-4150, Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM Central. More in our trade guides.