Mexico Suspends Footwear Imports: Why This Is the Perfect Time to Manufacture Locally with Made in

Mexico’s recent decision to suspend temporary imports of finished footwear under the IMMEX program is shaking up the industry. For some, it looks like a setback—higher tariffs, tighter rules, and fewer imports from Asia.

But here’s the truth: this isn’t just a restriction, it’s an opportunity. For brands, retailers, and importers in the footwear sector, the new rules create the perfect chance to shift to local manufacturing, strengthen supply chains, and capture higher margins with the help of Made in.

What Changed: The New Footwear Import Suspension

• The government has banned temporary imports of finished footwear under IMMEX.
• Imports of finished shoes must now be declared under definitive importation rules.
• Non-FTA imports face a 25% tariff, hitting products from Asia especially hard.
• The measure aims to protect local industry, which has lost over 11,000 jobs and seen production drop by 12.8% in 2024 alone.

Who Is Affected Most?

• Importers & Distributors relying on cheap Asian shoes now face steep tariffs.
• Retailers & fast-fashion chains will see higher costs and less competitive prices.
• Consumers in the low-cost segment may face fewer affordable options.

Yes, it’s disruptive. But disruption often hides hidden opportunities.

The Opportunity: Manufacturing Locally with Made in

Instead of struggling with tariffs and unstable supply chains, importers and retailers can pivot to local production in Mexico. Here’s why it makes sense now:

Benefits of Manufacturing Locally

• Faster time-to-market: Produce closer to your consumers and avoid long shipping delays.
• Lower landed costs: No 25% tariff, reduced logistics expenses, and access to USMCA trade benefits.
• Reliable quality & compliance: Work with fabricantes confiables verified through Made in.
• Greater flexibility: Produce in smaller batches and test new collections without overstock risks.

How Made in Helps You Transition Seamlessly

Made in is the plataforma nearshoring designed to connect brands, importers, and retailers with trusted local manufacturers.

Here’s how we make it easy for you:

• AI-powered matching with the right Mexican footwear manufacturers.
• Instant cost simulations that calculate quotes, tariffs, and landed costs automatically.
• End-to-end visibility across production, compliance, and logistics.
• Scalable sourcing options for SMEs and large retailers alike.

Instead of paying tariffs and losing margins, you can relocalize your supply chain and win back control.

Key Takeaway: Turn Challenge into Competitive Advantage

The suspension of footwear imports under IMMEX may feel like a roadblock—but for forward-thinking companies, it’s the opening of a new path:

• Importers can become local producers.
• Retailers can offer “Made in Mexico” products with faster turnaround.
• Consumers can access better quality at competitive prices.

With Made in, you don’t just adapt to policy changes—you thrive in them.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Don’t let tariffs cut into your margins. Seize this opportunity to nearshore your production.

👉 Join Made in today at www.getmade.in and connect with verified Mexican footwear manufacturers ready to scale with you.