In the past few weeks, US authorities have been detecting more than usual shipments (from IMMEX [Maquiladora] companies) which contain narcotics. In these cases, the text of Rule 2.2.4 number 23, federal authorities of AGA are obligated to immediately suspend import permit of the company involved.

After long negotiations with the authorities of SAT, certain changes were made to Rule 2.2.4. This means that from now on, if arms or drugs are detected in an exportation by an IMMEX company, the company will NOT be immediately suspended from its import permit, but instead will be given a guarantee of audience (before the authorities) so that the company can present the necessary information to exonerate itself.

This modification is of enormous importance in terms of judicial security for the IMMEX companies, now that the authorities will abstain from automatic suspensions for these cases.

Here is where the C-TPAT (Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) program comes into play. One of the main requirements of the program is to have written and verifiable procedures for such areas as the selection and evaluation of business partners, inspection and tracking of equipment (trailer and tractor), and physical access controls (visitors and employees). These procedures are proof that the company is committed to maintaining a secure supply chain and can go a long way in an audience.

Companies should join C-TPAT to prevent loss of their Mexico import privileges.