Everything You Need to Know About the Mexican Customs Agency (ANAM)

Restructuring Mexico’s Customs System

As of January 1st, 2022, Mexico established the Agencia Nacional de Aduanas de México (ANAM), an autonomous customs agency now operating separately from the Tax Administration Service (SAT). The shift marks a pivotal restructuring aimed at strengthening compliance, streamlining border transactions, and reinforcing national security.

For 25 years, SAT oversaw customs enforcement. ANAM’s creation reflects Mexico’s ambition to modernize trade facilitation and reduce corruption while supporting economic growth through more agile and secure customs oversight.

What Is ANAM Responsible For?

ANAM oversees:

• Border inspections and monitoring of all import/export transactions

• Physical inspections at over 50 ports of entry

• Collection of customs duties and trade-related taxes

• Enforcement against contraband and illicit goods

• Issuing customs-specific regulations and procedures

SAT continues to handle post-importation audits, income and VAT tax collection, and programs such as Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) and VAT Certification.

Modernizing Customs Through a Militarized Structure

To increase operational discipline and eliminate discretionary practices, the Mexican government integrated military personnel—both active and retired—into ANAM’s workforce. This transformation is intended to:

• Enhance border security

• Promote procedural transparency

• Ensure enforcement consistency across customs offices

Why ANAM Matters in the Context of International Trade

Customs revenue makes up 16% of Mexico’s government income. ANAM is central to the country’s broader trade goals by:

• Supporting Mexico’s competitiveness in international trade (read how customs brokers boost it)

• Reducing customs clearance time for compliant businesses

• Enabling streamlined compliance through trade facilitation efforts

• Serving as a key member of the National Trade Facilitation Committee

Technology and the Future of Customs in Mexico

ANAM's creation coincides with an era of technological transformation. Mexico is embracing AI, automation, and predictive analytics to revolutionize trade logistics.

👉 Explore how AI is redefining international trade.

These innovations support real-time monitoring, streamline customs documentation, and reduce clearance delays—critical for maintaining global trade efficiency.

How Shelter Services Streamline Customs Compliance

One of the most effective ways to navigate Mexico’s complex customs framework is through shelter services. These models offload administrative burdens and regulatory risks by managing trade compliance, documentation, and customs coordination.

👉 Learn how shelter services simplify customs and trade compliance.

What Businesses Should Be Doing Now

• Monitor updates from ANAM and adapt your procedures accordingly

• Conduct a compliance health check on import/export operations

• Work closely with customs brokers trained under ANAM protocols

• Consider a shelter model to de-risk trade and ensure rapid entry

Prepare for the Customs Landscape Ahead

The Mexico’s customs agency is evolving—and businesses must evolve with it. ANAM's increased focus on security, compliance, and modernization is reshaping how international trade flows through the country.

At Prodensa, we guide companies through the changing customs landscape—helping you integrate compliance, optimize supply chains, and capitalize on Mexico’s strategic trade position.

Contact us to explore your compliance strategy with ANAM and ensure operational success in Mexico.