Mexico tightens rules for agro-exporters, requiring labor certification for foreign sales

Mexico is implementing new regulations to bolster labor rights within its crucial agricultural export sector. Starting soon, exporters of specific agricultural products will need to present a Labor Certification for Agro-exportation (CLA). This certificate will verify that all farmworkers involved in the production process receive their legal benefits and are covered by social security.

While the requirement is set to become mandatory on June 15, 2027, a 12-month pilot program will precede its full implementation. During this initial phase, the absence of the CLA will not prevent agro-products from leaving the country, allowing companies time to adapt to the new scheme. The Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare will issue the CLA, confirming compliance with labor obligations and social security for workers across the entire agricultural value chain, from production and harvesting to packaging and export.

Exporters must apply for the CLA through the Velagro platform, requiring registration with Mexico's tax (SAT) and social security (IMSS) administrations. Diego García, a partner at a law firm, stated that the agreement's purpose is to "accredit the observance of obligations in labor and social security matters to guarantee comprehensive compliance throughout the value chain and promote dignified work in the agricultural sector." He added that the initiative aims to "rectify informal work in the agricultural sector," making labor formalization a strategic requirement for Mexican agro-exports.

Mexico's agro-food exports reached $13.415 billion in the first quarter of 2026, with imports totaling $11.369 billion, according to the Grupo Consultor de Mercados Agrícolas (GCMA). Key exports include beer, berries, tequila, avocados, meat, chilies, tomatoes, and sugar. The new certification aims to ensure that these significant export revenues are generated under fair labor conditions.