Mexico implements General Law of Circular Economy

Mexico is undergoing a legislative transformation following the publication of the General Law of Circular Economy (LGEC) on January 19, 2026. The law mandates a 180-day period for local states to harmonize their own legislation with the national framework.

The current landscape across Mexico's 32 states is divided: 10 states have active legislation in place, including Mexico City, Guanajuato, Chihuahua, Baja California Sur, and Querétaro; 11 states have formal initiatives currently under review; and 11 states have yet to present formal proposals.

Dr. Alfredo Ávila Galarza, a researcher at the Universidad Autónoma de San Luis Potosí (UASLP), notes that the law aims to reintegrate materials into value chains to combat rising waste levels. In Mexico, daily waste generation has increased from approximately 0.9 to 1.1 kilograms per person, driven by urban migration and increased consumption of processed goods. The circular economy model encourages businesses to prioritize low-impact materials and repairable products, while advising consumers to reduce unnecessary purchases and opt for bulk goods.