Step by Step Guide to Importing Fuel into Veracruz, Mexico

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Step by Step Guide to Importing Fuel into Veracruz, Mexico

In 2025, Mexico intensified efforts to curb illegal fuel imports, seizing over 18 million liters of diesel and hydrocarbons at ports like Veracruz and Tamaulipas. A key development, reported on April 16, 2025, is Mexico’s suspension of U.S. fuel imports by truck at the Texas border, disrupting traditional supply chains. Direct maritime import into Veracruz is now critical, requiring compliance with the Energy Regulatory Commission (CRE) and Ministry of Energy (SENER) regulations.

Legal Requirements for Importing EN590

To import 200 MT (approximately 240,000 liters) of EN590 diesel legally, the buyer must secure permits, ensure quality compliance, and coordinate with port authorities. Below are the key requirements:

1. SENER Import Permit

A Permiso Previo de Importación from SENER is mandatory, applied through the Ventanilla Digital Mexicana de Comercio Exterior (VUCEM). The process takes 12 working days and requires:

  • Firma Electrónica Avanzada (FIEL): A valid electronic signature for the applicant.
  • Application Form: Per the Acuerdo published on February 22, 2019, available at https://dof.gob.mx/nota_detalle.php?codigo=5550943&fecha=22/02/2019.
  • Documentation:
    • Business name, RFC, and fiscal address.
    • Merchandise details: tariff code (likely 2710.19.30 for diesel), 200 MT quantity, estimated value in USD, and international supplier origin.
    • Transport means (maritime) and Veracruz storage facility details.
    • Supply contract with international supplier, including volume and fiscal ID.
    • For commercial use, contracts with at least two Mexican clients, including RFCs and sales volumes.
    • Laboratory contract with a CRE-accredited lab to verify NOM-016-CRE-2016 compliance.

Contact SENER for support at (55) 5000-6000, ext. 2337, or permisos_previos@energia.gob.mx to schedule an appointment within five working days at Insurgentes Sur 890, Colonia Del Valle, Mexico City.

2. CRE Permit for Commercial Activities

If the EN590 is for distribution or sale, the buyer needs a CRE permit for storage, distribution, or commercialization. Without clarification on the fuel’s purpose, assume commercial use given the volume. The CRE permit process varies but may take weeks. Check existing permits or apply via https://www.cre.gob.mx/Permisos/index.html.

3. SAT Registration

The buyer must be registered with SAT’s Importer Registry and have a valid RFC. Verify status or register at https://www.siat.sat.gob.mx/PTSC/.

4. Quality Compliance

EN590 must meet NOM-016-CRE-2016 standards for diesel quality, including sulfur content (15 ppm max in metropolitan areas). Contract a CRE-accredited laboratory for testing, listed at https://www.cre.gob.mx.

5. Customs Clearance

A customs broker must submit the Pedimento de Importación, accompanied by:

  • Bill of Lading
  • Commercial Invoice (in Spanish)
  • Packing List
  • Certificate of Origin (if applicable)
  • SGS or equivalent inspection certificate

Pay applicable duties and taxes, determined by the tariff code.

Strategic Checklist for Import

Timeline Step Action Responsible Party
T-6 weeks 1. Confirm Purpose Verify if fuel is for own use or commercial distribution/sale. Buyer
T-6 weeks 2. Check SAT Status Ensure RFC and Importer Registry enrollment at https://www.siat.sat.gob.mx/PTSC/. Buyer
T-6 weeks 3. Apply for SENER Permit Submit application via https://www.ventanillaunica.gob.mx/vucem/index.htm with FIEL and documents. Buyer
T-5 weeks (if needed) 4. Obtain CRE Permit Apply for CRE permit at https://www.cre.gob.mx/Permisos/index.html. Buyer
T-4 weeks 5. Engage Customs Broker Hire a Veracruz broker via https://www.caaarem.mx/. Buyer
T-4 weeks 6. Ensure Quality Compliance Contract CRE-accredited lab for NOM-016-CRE-2016 testing. Buyer/Supplier
T-3 weeks 7. Prepare Shipping Documents Compile Bill of Lading, Invoice, etc., with correct tariff code (e.g., 2710.19.30). Buyer/Supplier
T-2 weeks 8. Coordinate with ASIPONA Contact ASIPONA Veracruz at https://www.puertodeveracruz.com.mx/wordpress/contacto/ for port logistics. Buyer/Broker
Upon Arrival 9. Clear Customs Submit Pedimento and pay duties via broker. Customs Broker
Ongoing 10. Monitor Regulations Stay updated on import laws via https://www.gob.mx/sener. Buyer

Key Contacts at Veracruz Port

ASIPONA Veracruz: The port authority oversees operations. Contact them for specific import procedures:

Customs Brokers: Find a broker via the Confederación de Asociaciones de Agentes Aduanales de la República Mexicana (CAAAREM):

Insights from Recent Discussions

  • Stricter Enforcement: Posts note increased port inspections, emphasizing the need for complete documentation.
  • Fraud Risks: Verify suppliers to avoid scams, aligning with your blog’s fraud prevention advice.

Recommendations

  • Legal Consultation: Engage a Mexican energy law expert to review documentation.
  • Timing: Start permit applications now, as SENER takes 12 days and CRE may take longer.
  • Partnership Option: If permits are delayed, consider partnering with a Mexican firm holding valid SENER/CRE permits.
  • Fraud Prevention: Cross-check suppliers against your blog’s fraud resources.

Importing 200 metric tons (MT) of EN590 diesel into Veracruz, Mexico, requires navigating stringent regulations tightened in 2025 to combat illicit fuel trade. Recent port seizures and a halt on U.S. fuel imports by truck underscore the need for compliance. This guide provides a strategic checklist and legal path to ensure your shipment from an international supplier arrives without seizure, tailored for buyers of petroleum products.

Preparation

  • Referencing the truck import ban and Veracruz’s maritime process.
  • Presenting the checklist and permit forms.
  • Discussing ASIPONA and CAAAREM contacts for logistics.
  • Highlighting NOM-016-CRE-2016 compliance to ensure quality.

Compile a dossier with this guide, VUCEM application details, and contact information.

Sources: SENER, CRE, ASIPONA Veracruz, CAAAREM, Reuters, OilPrice.com, May 2025

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