Mexican chemical industry adapts to new environmental regulations

The Mexican chemical industry is adapting to stricter environmental and circular economy regulations as it prepares for the upcoming review of the USMCA trade agreement. Key regulatory updates, including the Official Mexican Standard 160 regarding hazardous waste and the General Law of Circular Economy, are forcing companies to modernize processes, improve water efficiency, and ensure input traceability.

The new legal framework introduces extended producer responsibility, holding manufacturers and importers accountable for the environmental impact of their products throughout their entire life cycle. This includes monitoring carbon footprints and resource usage. Industry experts note that these changes represent a fundamental shift in the operating environment, requiring companies to achieve growth while significantly reducing their environmental impact.

The sector is a vital component of the Mexican economy, representing 1.6% of the national GDP in 2025 with a production value of $20,576 million. The industry is deeply integrated with North American markets, with the United States serving as the primary trading partner and accounting for more than half of Mexico's chemical exports.