Customs Clearance for Pharmaceuticals to and from Mexico
We manage the complete customs clearance for Pharmaceuticals to and from Mexico. AEO-F certified, experienced with specific permits, certificates, and origin documents for this combination.
Shipments of Pharmaceuticals between NL and Mexico have specific customs considerations. On one side are the product-specific rules for Pharmaceuticals (HS codes, certificates, possibly DGR). On the other side: the trade regime between the EU and Mexico (Derde land met vrijhandelsakkoord) determines which import duties and origin documents apply.
Below you will read the combination: what specifically applies to Pharmaceuticals, plus what specifically applies to Mexico, plus how Aircargo.nl handles this combination daily.
For Pharmaceuticals from or to Mexico, you can benefit from the free trade agreement between the EU and Mexico. Origin document: EUR.1. With a correct origin declaration, 0% or reduced import duties apply. Note: Pharmaceuticals often have product-specific origin rules (Product Specific Rules). We verify in advance if your shipment qualifies.
Specific Rules for Pharmaceuticals
Pharmaceutical shipments are subject to strict regulations on multiple fronts. Customs requires GMP and GDP-compliant distribution licenses; the IGJ (Healthcare and Youth Inspectorate) oversees product specifications; and narcotics or psychotropic substances require an opium law permit from the CIBG. Temperature excursions are grounds for rejection — ensure comprehensive documentation for the entire chain.
HS Code Examples:
Chapter 30 — pharmaceutical products: 3004.90 other medicines, 3002.41 vaccines, 3006.30 diagnostic reagents. For clinical samples: 3002.12. Importers of medicines are subject to stricter TARIC controls than supplements or medical devices (Chapter 90).
Specific Rules for Mexico
The EU-Mexico Global Agreement modernization completed politically in January 2024 but not yet in force. Under the current regime: EUR.1 for preferential rates (0% on about 75% of goods). Mexican customs (SAT) is known for detailed declaration procedures. For food products, SAGARPA/SENASICA approval applies.
Typical Documents:
Commercial invoice in English or Spanish, packing list, Air Waybill, EUR.1 for preferential origin, if applicable COFEPRIS registration for pharma/medical equipment, NOM conformity for specific product categories.
Import Duties and Fees for Pharmaceuticals from Mexico
Most medicines are subject to 0% import duties in the EU under the Pharmaceutical Tariff Elimination Agreement. Medical devices and non-prescription supplements may incur 2–6% duties. VAT in the Netherlands: 9% for medicines, 21% for cosmetics and supplements.
Under which regime: Mexico falls under the “Derde land met vrijhandelsakkoord”. Origin document for preferential tariff: EUR.1. We calculate exactly what you owe in advance and prepare the correct origin document.
With our TST license, we can store pharmaceutical shipments in temporary storage with suspension of duties and VAT for up to 90 days — for example during batch release by your own quality department. Our CWP (customs warehouse) is suitable for longer-term inventory management. ACE (Authorized Consignee) allows direct transfer to our controlled environment without delay at Schiphol.
Key Figures for Pharmaceuticals Mexico
FAQ on Pharmaceuticals Mexico
How long does customs clearance take for Pharmaceuticals from Mexico?
With correct documentation, release usually follows within a few hours at Schiphol. For Mexico shipments, we expect 3–5 hours at Schiphol; 1–3 days on the Mexican side. Additional inspections (phytosanitary, veterinary, NVWA) may require extra time for Pharmaceuticals — we notify you in advance to minimize waiting times.
What documents do I need for Pharmaceuticals Mexico?
For Pharmaceuticals: see the product-specific certificates above. For Mexico: see typical documents above. The combination means we gather both sets and coordinate them. You provide the commercial invoice, packing list, and any certificates — we validate and file the declaration.
Can I pay import duties for this flow on a grouped basis?
Yes. Under our DPO permit (Deferred Payment), you can pay import duties and VAT for Pharmaceuticals from Mexico on a grouped basis — monthly instead of per shipment.
Which origin document do I use for a preferential tariff?
EUR.1. We prepare this document under our authorization as customs broker, provided the origin rules (including product-specific rules for Pharmaceuticals) are met.
How does your service work in practice?
We provide complete handling: pre-lodgement, import declaration (DMS), any NVWA notifications for Pharmaceuticals, and payment processing under DPO if desired. You get one point of contact for the entire process.
Start customs clearance of Pharmaceuticals Mexico?
Request a quote for customs clearance of Pharmaceuticals from Mexico. We respond within 4 hours with a fixed price.