Setting Up a Maquiladora in Juarez: Costs, IMMEX and Compliance

Juárez is the starting point for any successful manufacturing strategy in Mexico. Establishing a presence here allows companies to benefit from a mature ecosystem of specialized labor and consolidated commercial crossings. Beyond location, the key to a rapid market entry lies in mastering the IMMEX regulations and VAT certifications from day one.

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Why Juárez for your Maquiladora?

Juárez offers a strategic geographical position with direct border access to El Paso, Texas. It currently hosts over 320 active manufacturing plants and possesses a consolidated infrastructure for commercial crossings. In 2026, the city remains the leader in national exports, supported by a specialized workforce that simplifies the implementation of an IMMEX program for foreign investors.

What is the IMMEX Program and the VAT Certification?

The IMMEX legal framework is a system that allows the temporary import of goods used in industrial processes or services for export without paying the 16% VAT or general import duties.

• Cash Flow Protection: Obtaining the VAT/IEPS Certification is essential alongside your IMMEX authorization. Without it, your operation must pay VAT upfront on all raw materials, significantly impacting your initial capital.
• Customs Savings: Under the March 2026 decree, certain infrastructure and raw materials enjoy a 0% rate, a benefit your company should leverage through a certified partner.

Check out our full range of Logistics and Customs Services. (Our main site is currently in Spanish; we recommend using the Google Translate browser extension for the best experience).

How to Handle Compliance and 2026 Regulations?

Operating under IMMEX requires strict inventory management under Annex 24 and Annex 30 to track every temporary import that enters the country.

• Shelter Operations: This model allows companies to start manufacturing under an established partner’s legal entity, accelerating market entry while you obtain your own IMMEX permits.
• 2026 Customs Law: The new regulation demands higher fines for non-compliance. Certifications like OEA or C-TPAT are no longer optional if you want to reduce crossing times and inspection frequency.

Are you ready to start your manufacturing operation in Mexico?

The speed of your market entry and the security of your investment depend on your operational structure. Do you want to avoid tax pitfalls and ensure a seamless supply chain from day one? The answer lies in professional guidance. At Grupo Ei, we manage every aspect of your operation, from customs brokerage to full IMMEX administration.

Let's map out your customs and IMMEX structure before you commit to a timeline. Contact our international trade desk today. Our team is 100% bilingual.

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