How to import a robot to Mexico in 2026: taxes, registry, and lead times
Since 2026, Mexico has raised tariffs on countries without a trade agreement, including China. What that means for anyone looking to bring in a robot.
To import a robot to Mexico, the company must be registered in the Importers Registry (Padrón de Importadores, SAT) or import through a trading company. The General Import Tax (IGI), which depends on the tariff classification, the Customs Processing Fee (Derecho de Trámite Aduanero, DTA) and 16% VAT are paid. Since 2026, higher tariffs apply to selected tariff classifications from countries without a trade agreement, such as China, so correct tariff classification is key.
1. Who can import
In Mexico, definitive import requires the company to be registered in the Importers Registry (Padrón de Importadores, SAT). If your company is not registered, the alternative is to import through a trading company that invoices the equipment already cleared. In both cases a customs agent files the customs declaration (pedimento).
The complete process, from choosing the model to receiving it, is in the guide how to buy a robot.
2. The taxes you pay
| Concept | What it is | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| IGI | General Import Tax | Depends on the tariff classification and the country of origin |
| DTA | Customs Processing Fee (Derecho de Trámite Aduanero) | 0.8% of customs value in most cases |
| VAT | Tax on the customs value plus IGI and DTA | 16%, creditable for companies |
3. What changed in 2026
Since January 2026, Mexico applies higher tariffs, between 10% and 50%, to hundreds of tariff classifications imported from countries with which it has no trade agreement, including China. Not all robot categories were affected in the same way: the impact depends on how each piece of equipment is classified.
That is why tariff classification is the most important technical decision in an import. The same robot can be classified in different ways depending on its main function, and the difference in taxes can be large. At Robusto we validate it with the customs agent before issuing the quote.
4. Certifications and regulations
Robots that use Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or cellular networks may require telecommunications approval, and some electrical products must comply with Mexican Official Standards (NOM). It is best to check this before shipment, because resolving it at customs leads to storage fees and delays.
5. Why a fixed price makes sense
With tariffs that change and classifications that depend on technical judgment, the risk of surprises at destination is real. A fixed price, delivered to your company, shifts that risk to whoever manages the import.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be in the Importers Registry (Padrón de Importadores, SAT)?
To import in your company's name, yes. If you are not registered, you can buy from a trading company that carries out the import.
Do Chinese robots pay a higher tariff since 2026?
Some classifications, yes, because Mexico raised tariffs on countries without a trade agreement. The impact depends on how each piece of equipment is classified.
Can the import VAT be recovered?
For companies, the 16% VAT paid on import is creditable, depending on their tax situation.