At the 85th National Congress of Customs Brokers (CAAAREM), Prodensa CEO Emilio Cadena joined leading experts to explore the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the future of customs. We’re sharing the most relevant insights from this event—especially those impacting international companies operating in or near Mexico.
Far from being a distant concept, AI is already reshaping trade operations. It is no longer just a tool for efficiency but a driver of cultural transformation in customs and supply chain management. Experts emphasized that the key challenge is not technological—but human: shifting mindsets from manual processes to strategic decision-making.
Is AI coming to replace your customs team? Not quite. Experts agree: AI is not here to eliminate jobs, but to transform them. Eliseo Ortiz Valdés, Director of DA4, emphasized that businesses need to shift toward more analytical thinking.
“We must talk about AI not as a threat, but as a tool that empowers.”
This shift means building organizational intelligence—using high-quality data to anticipate errors, reduce risks, and avoid costly sanctions. Companies must now focus on preparing teams to extract strategic insights, rather than just execute repetitive tasks.
Data isn’t just an input—it’s your most valuable asset. AI is only as effective as the quality of the data it receives. As Ortiz noted, “If you feed it with bad data, you’ll get bad results.” This places data strategy at the center of any modern customs operation.
Julio César Cantú Salazar, founder of AduanApp, reinforced this point by stating that AI should enhance traceability and security, not simply automate old processes.
“Innovation doesn’t eliminate processes or jobs; it multiplies them.”
Companies need robust data models that integrate supply chain, customs, and regulatory requirements to stay compliant and competitive.
Certifications like C-TPAT, BASC, or OEA are increasingly tied to digital traceability and predictive analytics—not just physical inspections. AI now plays a critical role in helping companies detect risks such as delayed shipments or abandoned goods.
Ortiz warned companies against outsourcing their intelligence:
“You have to know how to store, protect, and use your data so you don’t have to ‘rent’ intelligence you could have built internally.”
Digital customs tools are now essential to meet evolving compliance demands in global trade.
While governments will regulate AI, it’s companies who must lead adoption. Waiting for policy change is not an option.
“If we wait for the government to decide on new technologies, by the time they are approved, they will already be obsolete.” – Julio César Cantú Salazar
Preparing today—by investing in training, systems, and data models—ensures resilience and long-term competitiveness.
Ultimately, the transition to AI in customs is not just about technology—it’s about mindset. Moving from mechanical to strategic, from reactive to proactive.
AI is not just software. It’s a cultural catalyst that helps professionals work smarter, faster, and with greater accuracy.
“We must talk about AI not as a threat that will take away jobs, but as a tool that provides more resources to work smarter.” – Eliseo Ortiz Valdés
For companies engaging in nearshoring, manufacturing in Mexico, or exploring shelter services in Mexico, adapting early to AI trends in customs is a strategic advantage.
AI will transform—not eliminate—customs jobs. Focus on upskilling your workforce.
Poor data equals poor results. Build strong data models to support AI use.
AI strengthens supply chain traceability and risk prevention.
Companies must lead AI adoption; don’t wait for government approval.
AI is a cultural shift that will redefine trade compliance and productivity.